This Week s Most Popular Stories Concerning Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma lawsuits typically resemble those of other diseases such as lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma lawsuit accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma lawsuits in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

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

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

mesothelioma lawsuits develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming 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 and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this point, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to 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 could include CT scans, MRI, 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 may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. mesothelioma attorney usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades, it was used in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. In time irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination and request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

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

Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the condition. They may include chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the available treatments. We'll ship it to you at no cost, without obligation. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to nurses any questions. You can also contact a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.