Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. 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 workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is 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 employed in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

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

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma lawyers types include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

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

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma lawyer more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

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

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to show its first symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

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

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships automobiles and other items. 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 issues. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most common mesothelioma type and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties 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 heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other illnesses. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma lawsuits does not transmit however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the disease. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma lawsuit is diagnosed. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We're committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.