Asbestosis Warning Signs

Unfortunately many workers in Northern Ireland were exposed to deadly asbestos fibres during their working life. This brought the risk of workers contracting Asbestosis.

Asbestosis causes respiratory problems that only become apparent later in your life. It is important that you look out for and seek medical help if you notice the symptoms of asbestosis. Here are some of the warning signs:

1 – A Shortness of Breath

This symptom occurs after a pro-longed period of asbestos exposure. The fibres can not be broken down by the lungs and so they will cause irritation and cause you to feel short of breath and tired.

2 – Fluid & Swelling

Fluid and swelling can be warning signs of asbestosis. Asbestos fibres inhalation tends to increase blood pressure and the accumulation of fluids in the lungs and around the heart. It is common to see swelling around the neck and face.

3 – Breathing Difficulties

Asbestos fibres cause inflammation and scar tissue inside the lungs. This makes it very hard to breathe properly and so can lead to a crackling chesty noise when you inhale to take a breath. It is difficult for the lungs to absorb oxygen.

4 – Bloating & Tenderness in the Abdomen

Toxic asbestos fibres can interrupt the normal functions of the body. This can lead to bloating due to fluid in the abdomen. There may be tenderness and weight loss associated with these symptoms.

If you have previously worked in or around asbestos and you have breathing problems or the symptoms described, we recommend that you consult your doctor as soon as possible. It may turn out to be of no concern but it is always best to get checked.

Unknown Consequences of Asbestos

It is regrettable that around the world we simply didn’t know the dangers associated with asbestos. We thought it was a wonderful and magic material.

Today many buildings still contain asbestos and the dangers are still there. We cannot stress enough the importance of managing asbestos in the workplace. We never want to see anyone contract asbestosis again.

Asbestos Surveyors NI

Call Philip on 07702 332 333 to book an asbestos survey today!