Illinois residents with asbestos exposure face numerous health risks. Today we will take a look at Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, also known as COPD. COPD is an illness related to the lungs often brought on by extended exposure to irritants. It does not have a cure and can leave a heavy impact on a sufferer’s life.
COPD sufferers often do not realize they have the illness until a moderate or even late stage. Spirometry tests help determine if you have it. It is important to take spirometry tests periodically if you:
- Have a family history of COPD
- Work in an environment with a lot of fumes or lung irritants
- Are a current or former smoker
- Were exposed to harmful fumes for an extended period of time
Spirometry tests are non-invasive. You blow all of the air out of your lungs into the mouthpiece of a spirometer. This device is able to calculate two numbers. First, it examines how much air you blow out within the first second. Then, it examines how much air you blow out in six seconds or longer. The first second determines your Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV). The rest of the test measures your Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). Based on results, doctors can decide if you have COPD and how severe it is. This will help them decide on treatments.
If you want to read more about asbestos-related diseases, visit our linked web page. You can read more about asbestos and the harmful effects it has on the body. You can also take a look at how to handle illnesses brought on by exposure to asbestos, such as COPD.
