Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs before it was banned in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

mesothelioma lawsuit, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that protect different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and interferes with their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

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

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma attorneys and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a physician to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the mesothelioma lawyer type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

In the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. For a long time it was employed in a variety of American industries because it is inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.

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

Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to see your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma attorneys is not contagious, family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.

Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. Then, they can become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma attorney.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms that may be related to the disease. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this disease and the available treatments. We'll send it to you free of charge, no commitment. 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 no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.