Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

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

What is mesothelioma lawsuit?

mesothelioma attorney is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and disrupts their function.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on contrary, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

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

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma attorney diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and 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 could cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma attorneys affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma type and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and consumed. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. 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 could inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a physician when you experience symptoms that could be related to the condition. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma lawyers type and the it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.