It’s a shock to learn that you may have been affected by an asbestos exposure.
You may have been exposed to dust while working in a dusty environment or living in an older house. If you are a tradie, you may have been exposed at work.
If you suspect you have been exposed to asbestos, your doctor will listen to your lungs and request a range of tests. These could include a chest x-ray, CT scan, and respiratory lung function test. These tests may be repeated over a period of time depending on your initial test results and, if there are signs of disease, to monitor your disease progression. You may wish to book a longer appointment with your GP to talk through the issues raised.
When seeing a doctor for test results, you may want to take a support person with you. Once a word like ‘cancer’ is used, it’s difficult to take in much else. Much better in this situation to have someone with you for support and to write down the key points of what the doctor says—two heads are better than one. If this is not possible, ask your doctor whether you can record the conversation—all smartphones can do this.
Questions to ask your doctor: –
Can I choose which specialist I want to see? Should I get a second opinion?
What treatments are available? Will there be side effects? How are they likely to affect me?
Will I be able to continue my usual activities? Able to work?
What is the likely outcome?
For support and help in navigating your diagnosis, please contact us on 0455 120 588 or Tracy who is our Care Coordinator
on 0476 777 115
