Treatment

There's no treatment to reverse the effects of asbestos on the alveoli. Treatment focuses on slowing the progression of the disease, relieving symptoms and preventing complications.

You'll need routine follow-up care, such as chest X-rays or CT scans and lung function tests, at regular intervals depending on the severity of your condition.

Therapy

To ease breathing difficulty caused by advanced asbestosis, your doctor might prescribe supplemental oxygen. This is delivered by thin plastic tubing with prongs that fit into your nostrils or thin tubing connected to a mask worn over your nose and mouth.

Participating in a pulmonary rehabilitation program may help some people. The program offers educational and exercise components such as breathing and relaxation techniques, ways to improve physical activity habits, and education to improve overall health.

Surgery

If your symptoms are severe, you might be a candidate for a lung transplant.