The Most Prevalent Issues In Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also 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 only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. It is often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma lawyers. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure, and then perform an 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. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma lawsuits diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About 3000 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 growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest 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 inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma lawsuit affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. 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 which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma lawsuit can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that may be related to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll ship it to you free of charge, no commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.