Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that surround various organs within the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma lawsuits is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. 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 homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that encircles vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered 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 accounts for 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 have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

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

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma attorney diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.

When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings automobiles and many other products. People who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which 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 accumulate, leading to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

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

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos attorney workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members can inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit; our homepage,. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.