Center for Asbestos Safety

Bronchitis Or Mesothelioma?

It is not uncommon for doctors to misdiagnosis a disease or condition. And, although we would like them to get it right on the first try, many times patients arrive with something that doctors know little about. Unfortunately, some conditions are studied more than others. The ones that occur more often tend to have more information and more research. And, the conditions that are rare have little information and little research. Therefore, the doctor is left with little to go on when it comes to determining the treatment course. 

Those who have been exposed to asbestos often develop respiratory problems. They might experience trouble breathing, a shortness of breath, and even an irregular coughing pattern. Many people who have bronchitis experience these common respiratory problems. Thus, it is not uncommon for your doctor to prescribe you with a Z-Pac and send you on your way. 

If you have bronchitis, you will probably start to feel much better in a few days. However, if you have an asbestos related problem, the medication will do nothing to help the problem. If you know that you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important that you tell your doctor beforehand when you are being treated for any illness so they can take this into consideration when they diagnose your condition. Mesothelioma cancer is difficult to diagnose, however knowing about asbestos exposure could help your doctor catch the cancer earlier.

Center for Asbestos
Safety in the Workplace