Why Nobody Cares About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at most risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma lawyers. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four types of mesothelioma lawsuit. Each type has a different 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, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma lawyers accounts to 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. 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 lifespan. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can cause tumors.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe 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 the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

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

People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

Although 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 the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.