While the U.S. has long since banned asbestos in construction materials, the potential exposure still exists. According to Asebestos.com, approximately 39,000 Americans die annually due to asbestos-related diseases. Unfortunately, symptoms of exposure may take decades...
How does asbestos get into a person’s lungs?
Scientists, doctors and public health professionals have long decried the potential dangers of asbestos exposure. Indeed, if you work with or near asbestos, you might have an increased likelihood of developing life-threatening diseases, such as asbestosis and certain...
Are asbestos diaphragms dangerous?
Scientists have long recognized the value of using chlorine to kill potentially harmful bacteria. Indeed, you may find chlorine in your drinking water, swimming pool or under-the-sink cleaning solutions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,...
When should you talk to your doctor about a dry cough?
Whether you suffer from seasonal allergies or come down with the occasional cold, you may not think much about a dry cough. After all, coughs are alarmingly common. For that reason, it is possible to find a variety of over-the-counter and at-home remedies to alleviate...
What is chrysotile asbestos?
If you have ever worked as a construction contractor, you may be able to recognize asbestos by sight without performing chemical testing. While asbestos is a naturally occurring fiber that builders and others used for decades, it comes in more than one form. In fact,...
Alleged mishandling at grocery store causes lawsuit concerns
The United States banned asbestos in the early 1990s. However, asbestos still finds a place in sealed items like car brakes these days and there is always the chance of uncovering old asbestos. Old buildings and machinery often insulated their walls and floors with...
How can I protect my family from asbestos?
Many Americans assume that asbestos is a workplace-related hazard. However, there are thousands of residential buildings across the US that may contain asbestos. Given how harmful asbestos exposure is, you must take all proper precautions. According to the...
What consumer products may contain asbestos?
Some consumer products you use may contain ingredients contaminated by the harmful substance asbestos. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that products made with talc could contain asbestos fibers. Manufacturers generally add talc to products to reduce...
Which jobs have the highest rates of asbestos exposure?
Asbestos is a mineral that is commonly found in building materials due to its ability to resist heat and corrosion. It is generally harmless if it is left alone and not consumed or inhaled. Unfortunately, exposure to dust from this substance can cause problems such as...
Diagnosis of asbestosis
Prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to a condition called asbestosis. This occurs when asbestos fibers irritate the lungs, forming scar tissue. Scarred lung tissue is stiffer and does not expand as well as healthy tissue. This makes breathing more difficult....