Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest risk of being exposed.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue could develop.
There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and disrupts their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma lawyers accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect internal organs including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma attorneys can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to show its first symptoms. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma attorney. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
mesothelioma lawyer is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. For a long time it was employed in many American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lung. This is the most common mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming in your body.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related patients are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with 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 could bring asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.
Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.