Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos law when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

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

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has an individual prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos legal-related workers and military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

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

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura), though it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs, has heat-resistant properties. For many years it was employed in many American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings automobiles and many other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material 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 may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos compensation workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.