Treating Pleural Thickening

Chest X-RayThere is no specific cure for pleural thickening because once the damage has been caused it is irreversible, but it is extremely important to have the disease diagnosed because pleural thickening could go on to cause additional complications. Strictly speaking pleural thickening is considered as a benign condition but there is a possibility that it can go on to cause malignant mesothelioma so careful regular monitoring of a patient’s condition is essential.

If you have had a history of working within environments that contained asbestos and you exhibit some or all of the symptoms of pleural thickening, you should immediately visit a qualified medical professional.

Getting a diagnosis

There are a number of tests that can be performed to determine whether the condition is benign (pleural thickening) or malignant (mesothelioma).

Typically you will find that an x-ray is offered along with a CT scan. If the scans show a localised thickening of the white lining around the lung then it is likely that the physician will diagnose a pleural thickening condition.

If you are a smoker it is important to try to give up the habit because it will potentially decrease lung function even further and could lead to lung cancer.

Regular visits to a doctor should be maintained to monitor the condition and also a fitness regime if possible to try to retain as much lung function as possible.

If your GP diagnoses you as having an asbestos related disease such as a pleural thickening condition it is possible that you could claim for personal injury compensation because pleural thickening is considered as an industrial injury.