What is a common symptom of lung-related diseases caused by asbestos?

A common symptom of lung-related diseases caused by asbestos exposure is difficulty breathing, which stems from the damage that asbestos fibers inflict on lung tissue. As individuals are exposed to asbestos, the inhaled fibers can lead to conditions such as asbestosis or lung cancer, both of which compromise lung function over time. This impairment can result in symptoms like shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, as the lungs become less efficient at oxygen exchange.

Furthermore, while other symptoms exist for different diseases, such as weight loss related to cancer or joint pain from other conditions, they do not directly correlate with the primary respiratory issues linked to asbestos exposure. Therefore, difficulty breathing stands out as the hallmark symptom reflecting the impact of asbestos on respiratory health.