### instruction:
If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patient's description.

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Hello! I was exposed to airborn asbestos-like fine glass dust about 4 1/2 yrs ago. thereafter, I began having intermittent shortness of breath, and other uncomfortable throat and chest symptoms that have only worsened. since that exposure time, I have been diagnosed with Asthma, Autoimmunehypothyroidism(Hashimoto s). Vocal Cord Disfunction, Traecheabroncheomalacia, bronchiectasis, and there has been an increased amount of findings on chest Ct. Could my exposure have caused these problems?? I am struggling to breath each day, doing naturpathic treatments, using nebulized Albeuterol, nebulized Glutathione, spireva, and of course eating as many veggies as I can! I would appreciate any input or advice... Thank You!

### output:

Hello and welcome to Chat Doctor forum. Asbestosis, a condition that affects the lungs, usually occurs after high intensity and/or long-term exposure to asbestos (particularly in those individuals working on the production or end-use of products containing asbestos) and is therefore regarded as an occupational lung disease. The primary symptom of asbestos is is generally the slow onset of breathlessness, especially on exertion. It may manifest from years to decades after the exposure. In my opinion your condition may not be because of asbestos is, rather your Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and bronchiectasis could be the main culprits. An X-ray can confirm the finding of fibrosis caused by asbestos is. You may need Oxygen therapy if your breathing does not improve with Nebulized Albuterol and Glutathione. Some people might need surgical correction of TBM which a clinical examination and Pulmonary function tests should help in assessing. There is not much chance of reversing the changes in your lungs, it can mostly be managed. I would like you to go through this link which is greatly helpful to most patients.http://www.bronchiectasishelp.org.uk/#features/19Hope this helps, take care.