Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma lawyer many decades after exposure.
The first symptoms of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. 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 determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma lawyer and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma attorney with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the irritation causes scar tissue to grow which can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
mesothelioma lawyer, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors.
Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma lawsuits.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.
While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to check for 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, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to nurses any questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.