One of the biggest issues with asbestos exposure is the fact that the symptoms of related diseases typically do not appear for a long time. It can be anywhere from 15 to 40 years before any type of symptoms even start to develop. Although the mineral is not used in construction anymore, many people were exposed to it years ago and are now suffering from the effects. Asbestos removal in Brisbane should be done by a professional as this is the only way you can avoid the effects of asbestos poisoning.
What is Asbestos?
The asbestos mineral is found naturally and occurs as thin and loose fibres. There are two families of asbestos, the amphibole, which are needle-like fibres, and the chrysolite. Chrysolite was used commercially in construction and for many other things for many years. Asbestos was used because it had so many great features like resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals, and it also does not conduct electricity.
Who is at risk?
People that have a high risk of asbestos poisoning include those who have worked in construction handling materials with asbestos, those who worked or lived in a house with asbestos, people who were in command of the removal of asbestos, employees of shipyards who renovated ships, employees who performed renovations and any shipyard crew that helped demolish a ship.
Symptoms of Asbestos Poisoning
There are three major health conditions that are associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestosis is a non-cancer disease that infects the lungs. This occurs when large amounts of asbestos accumulate in the lungs causing scarring. This makes it hard for oxygen to get to the blood stream. Mesothelioma is a type of rare cancer. It affects the lining around the lungs and abdomen.
One of the most familiar health conditions caused by asbestos exposure is lung cancer. Some of the symptoms include crackling breathing sounds, general trouble breathing, anaemia, coughing, nausea, lack of appetite, chest pain, weight loss, fevers, night sweats, shortness of breath, and swelling in the face and neck.
Even people who are not directly exposed to asbestos are still at risk. The most difficult aspect of asbestos poisoning is the fact that it occurs so many years after the exposure. If you live in an older home or work in a building where there is a risk of asbestos it is important to contact an asbestos removal company in Brisbane, like Asbestos Removals Australia, to perform an inspection and determine whether or not the asbestos needs to be removed.