Asbestosis

Asbestosis is long-term inflammation and scarring of the lungs caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, producing symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, and chest tightness. It develops only after a relatively large exposure sustained over a long period, which typically limits it to people who worked directly with asbestos. Complications can include lung cancer, mesothelioma, and heart problems related to lung disease, and all types of asbestos fiber are associated with increased risk.