Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

asbestos attorney is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with a family history of mesothelioma. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos lawyer, and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.

When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two first types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

asbestos settlement is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos attorney fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos (official site) are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based 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 survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.