Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs 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?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that surround different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. 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 homes, buildings 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 asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may appear.
There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
The physician may also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma attorneys the patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades it was utilized in a variety of American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships automobiles, and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up, leading to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. mesothelioma attorneys 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 and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to develop.
Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. Then, they can become trapped 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 employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members may inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare It is still important to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be related to the condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma attorneys yet, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.