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Asbestosis Diagnosis and Physical Examination

Tips for Obtaining a Diagnosis of Asbestosis

Nov 10, 2009 Cherrine Banks

An asbestosis diagnosis can be obtained with a physical examination of a patient with diagnostic imaging tests such as chest X-rays and computerized tomography (CT) scan.

Asbestosis is a respiratory disorder caused when small fibers are inhaled and become trapped in the lungs. The nose acts as filter against air contaminants ,but these tiny fibers are hard and resistant. These tiny fibers are called asbestos.

Asbestos, a natural mineral, has been used in various products such as paints and floors. Currently, asbestos is regulated to minimize harmful exposure. Asbestosis patients may have been exposed for 10 years or more before any signs or symptoms are visible.

Patients who are unsure about the reasons for symptoms can visit a physician. During a medical evaluation, physicians may asks questions, check the patient's symptoms, and perform diagnostic tests for confirmation. Physicians require testing ,since this respiratory disease may mimic another disease such as lung cancer.

Physician Questions for Asbestosis

A physician may ask respiratory-related questions to verify diagnosis. This provides the physician with a better understanding of a patient's medical history. Some respiratory-related questions may include:

Have you been experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath or difficult breathing? The answer to this question gives the physician specific examples of what the patient is experiencing.
Have you had prior chest x-rays performed? Previous X-rays may show a timeline of changes.
Do you live with anyone with a respiratory diseases such as mesothelioma? Patients may obtain asbestosis from a secondary source such as spouse or parent.

Checking for Asbestosis Signs and Symptoms

A physician may listen to a patient's heart sounds using a stethoscope. Listening to chest sounds may not give a final diagnosis ,so a physician may check for signs and symptoms. Some signs and symptoms may include:

difficulty breathing (dyspnea), which can be caused by scar tissue on the lungs
problems exercising--patients may start feeling pain when exercising and resting.
constant chest pain, which can be attributed to fluid buildup within the lungs.

Performing Tests for Asbestosis Confirmation

Patients can schedule an office visit. After a reviewing the health questionnaire along with a physical examination, a physician may order diagnostic testing for confirmation. Some diagnostic imaging for this respiratory disease may include:

chest X-ray, which can show any changes in lung tissue, which may represent asbestosis or another respiratory disease
pulmonary function tests, which can measure patient lung airflow
computerized tomography (CT) scan, which can provide a cross-sectional images of lung tissue

Once patient questions have been answered and testing has been performed, an asbestosis confirmation can be established. A proper diagnosis can provide a treatment plan. The respiratory disease can not be reversed, but physicians may be able to help reduce signs and symptoms.

Sources:

Mayo Clinic Asbestosis

Regional Medical Clinic Asbestosis

Disclaimer:

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.

The copyright of the article Asbestosis Diagnosis and Physical Examination in General Medicine is owned by Cherrine Banks. Permission to republish Asbestosis Diagnosis and Physical Examination in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Obtaining a Asbestosis Diagnosis