The dangers of asbestos are part of its very structure.
Asbestos is made up of thin fibrous crystals and occurs in six different silicate materials. It is excellent as an electrical insulator and is also very heat-resistant. It has been used in building materials for decades, however, in recent years the dangers of asbestos to human and animal health have become more apparent.
Inhaling asbestos is so dangerous that it has now become illegal in many countries around the world. It can lead to serious respiratory problems and also cancer, which is why understanding the dangers of asbestos is vital.
Dangers of Asbestos: Initial Stages
Building materials that include asbestos are not dangerous until they corrode and begin to release asbestos fibers, which can then be inhaled.
The biggest problem arises when these fibers are trapped in the nose, passed into the lungs, or are swallowed into the digestive system. Because they are so thin and sometimes microscopic, they cannot be removed from the body.
Any kind of damage can trigger the release of asbestos fibers including aging, water damage, sawing, and improper home renovation that damages materials that include asbestos.
Dangers of Asbestos: Health Damage
Numerous health issues follow an inhaling or swallowing of asbestos fibers, which can seriously deteriorate a person's health and even cause cancer.
Asbestosis
The name of the dangerous fibers is the namesake of a respiratory disease that can develop as a result.
It occurs when the fibers enter the lung tissue, causing scars and serious damage that develop into breathing problems and 'squeaky' lungs. Individuals who develop this illness will no longer be able to participate in sports activities, and may even experience cardiac arrest in the future.
Lung Cancer
This is the most frequent cause of death after exposure to asbestos. It is particularly common for individuals who work in factories that either produce asbestos or that are built with materials that contain it.
Symptoms include strong coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. These symptoms must immediately be checked with a physician, who will advise the person on how to deal with the situation and which medical aids might assist them in their illness and healing process.
Mesothelioma
This is another form of cancer although a rare one. It occurs when asbestos fibers become lodged in the very thin membrane linings of the lungs, abdomen, or the heart. Almost every case of mesothelioma is directly related to the person being in contact with asbestos at some point in their life.
It develops quickly, and if it is not diagnosed in time, it is often deadly.
Hire A Professional To Deal With Asbestos
If you are worried that asbestos might be posing a danger in your home, hire a team of professionals to assess the situation for you and ensure that you can continue to live safely in your own home.
For example, RidAway offers a professional asbestos removal service, which includes 100% asbestos removal, industry safety protection, and free insulation installation.
Don't wait for a health problem to appear! Deal with any asbestos issues on time and save yourself and your loved one.
