Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct structures, homes aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma lawyers for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma lawyers is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. People who work in asbestos and military veterans and those with mesothelioma history are among these groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mix of the two kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. For many years, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma lawsuits-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for removing or handling it in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma lawyer. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothing. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma lawsuit is rare It is still important to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the disease. This includes chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.