Asbestosis Treatment

The best treatment for asbestosis and mesothelioma comes in the form of prevention and early discovery. Diseases caused by the inhalation of asbestos can be prevented by the reduction of asbestos dust and fibers present in the workplace, as this is the most common place that asbestos exposure occurs. Fortunately, most industries have improved dust control and the protections for workers who come in contact with asbestos dust. However, many cases of asbestosis and mesotheliomas still occur because of the lengthy latency period of the illnesses. Workers who were exposed as many as 40 years ago are still developing these asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos in the home, present in many older buildings as it was used for insulation and fire resistance, should be removed only by workers trained in safe asbestos abatement techniques. Because the risk for developing asbestosis and mesothelioma is greater in smokers who have been exposed to the deadly mineral, regular chest x-rays, as well as quitting smoking, can reduce the risk of lung cancer, as well as assist in the early discovery of the disease, should it occur.

Asbestosis cannot be cured, but there are many treatments for the symptoms. Most ease symptoms, and include the administration of oxygen therapy to relieve shortness of breath. Another technique, known as thoracentesis, drains the fluid that accumulates in the lungs, and also may increase the ease of breathing. Though not common, lung transplantation can be used as a treatment of asbestosis.

Tragically, mesotheliomas are almost invariably fatal. Neither chemotherapy nor radiation therapy work well. Surgical removal of the malignant mesothelioma tumor does not cure the cancer. Other treatments of mesotheliomas are focused on controlling pain and shortness of breath.