Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at most risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma attorney forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect internal organs including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma lawyers, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.
The doctor may also suggest imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the kind of mesothelioma lawyer that patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.
In 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 treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two first types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.
Causes of Mesothelioma
mesothelioma attorney most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades it was employed in many American industries because it is inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were among those most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lung. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other illnesses. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming within your body.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale 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 grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.
Exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They can then become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to see a physician for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examinations and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests could include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.
The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the treatments available. We'll send it to you free of cost, without obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We're committed to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.