Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
mesothelioma lawyers is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two types and accounts between 30 and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades, it was used in many American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Those who worked in the construction industry were 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 can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.
mesothelioma attorneys is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to consult a doctor for any symptoms that could be related to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about the treatment options. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Download your free mesothelioma attorney guide to find out more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no commitment. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We're committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.