Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is asbestos claim exposure.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. asbestos lawyer is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may develop.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is detected the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos law industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to begin showing symptoms. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and 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 what type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process.

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos legal. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.

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

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to visit your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the treatments available. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, without commitment. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.