Asbestosis (White Lung)

Asbestos is a mineral with very small microscopic fibers that are invisible to the naked eye. It is a strong mineral which is often used in construction. However, when asbestos separates or is damaged, the microscopic needle-like fibers are released into the air and can be inhaled into the lungs. When the fibers are breathed in, they can be trapped into the lungs and spread into other parts of the body as well.

Asbestosis is the long-term effect of inhaling asbestos fibers that leads to a chronic lung disease. Scarring can be found by in the lung tissue, and symptoms often are not seen until years after sustained exposure. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, dry cough, loss of appetite and chest tightness or pain. Asbestosis leads to an increased risk of lung cancer.