Asbestosis

Asbestosis is the scarring of the lung tissue caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers. It may result in the shrinking of the lungs and in a reduction of lung capacity. Symptoms of asbestosis include: shortness of breath, dry cough, rales, crackles heard through a stethoscope, and fatigue. Like mesothelioma, asbestosis may have a latency period of thirty or more years; however, symptoms of asbestosis may be spotted much sooner depending on the length and degree of the asbestos exposure involved.