Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos litigation.

Asbestos Legal was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases, including lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, may develop.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly used 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 unique symptoms, but all are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos lawyer are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.

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

During an examination, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two first types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

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 is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. For many years it was employed in many American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

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

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos claim exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a doctor for any symptoms that may be related to the disease. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you at no cost, without commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We're committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.