Asbestosis Diagnosis
The development of any disease is alarming and a diagnosis of asbestosis is no exception. Because asbestosis can someday develop into mesothelioma, the diagnosis becomes even more frightening for those looking ahead to the future. But asbestosis doesn't have to be a death sentence. The disease affects different individuals in different ways. Some may be almost totally non-symptomatic while others may suffer from a variety of uncomfortable symptoms of the disease.
It's important, however, to be diligent about checking regularly for asbestosis, especially if you worked with asbestos for a long period of time. Early detection may be the key to controlling the disease and its symptoms.
Symptoms of Asbestosis
An individual can have asbestosis for some time without knowing it. It's not until symptoms begin to appear that the victim suspects something is wrong. The most common symptoms of asbestosis are:
- Chest Pain
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath; especially during exertion but, eventually, even while at rest
- Decreased tolerance for physical activity
- Clubbed fingers (indicative of a lung disorder)
Obtaining a Diagnosis
Often, when a person begins to develop the signs and symptoms of asbestosis, they are unaware of what's happening to their body and why. That means the first step towards diagnosis is usually a visit to their general practitioner.
After some time spent speaking with the general practitioner about the patient's current state of health, including any symptoms he/she might be experiencing, the doctor should take a full medical history of the patient including information about occupation. It is VERY IMPORTANT for the patient to mention any potential exposure to asbestos. Failure to mention this may result in a much lengthier diagnosis process as well as unnecessary medical tests.
Once the doctor surmises that there is potential for asbestosis, he will most likely order a traditional x-ray to get a better look at the lungs. The patient will be sent to a hospital or an outpatient imaging facility for the x-ray. Traditional x-rays can be read quickly and results should be available within a day or so. If the x-ray shows anything suspicious, more sophisticated tests will be ordered.
Pulmonary function tests - These simple tests measure how much air your lungs can hold and the airflow in and out of your lungs. For example, you may be asked to blow into an air-measuring device known as a spirometer. A handful of more sophisticated pulmonary function tests can also measure the amount of gas exchanged across the membrane between your alveoli and capillary blood vessels.
CT Scan - The CT (Computer Tomography) scan provides your doctor with a better and more detailed look at the lungs. While conventional x-rays focus beams of radiation towards one part of the body, the CT scan machine consists of an x-ray-generating device that rotates around the entire body. The device, which is connected to a high-tech computer, provides cross-section "slices" of the inside of the body. It is not necessary to prepare in advance for a CT scan, which will be administered at a hospital or outpatient facility. The procedure is painless and technicians will make sure you're comfortable while the scan is being taken.
MRI - The MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of the head or body and has proven to be even more accurate than the CT scan, especially for diagnosing tumors or other problems with the lungs. That makes it especially useful for detecting asbestosis or mesothelioma. No preparation is needed for the MRI unless your doctor recommends that the test be done using a contrast dye. If so, you'll need to drink the harmless dye prior to the test being administered. Patients will simply lie on the table that moves through the MRI machine, which directs radio waves towards the body. Clicking and other noises may occur during the procedure, but patients should be assured that they're harmless and are no indication of a problem. Most MRIs last from 30 to 90 minutes and many people fall asleep during the test. If you have a fear of closed-in spaces, some hospitals and other facilities offer open MRIs or you will be offered a sedative before the test.
Once the doctor has determined that you do indeed have asbestosis and ascertains the severity of the disease, he/she will recommend steps for treating it.
Last modified: December 17 2007.
