Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, may appear.

There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under a microscope. If cancer is found, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It 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 form. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with perrysburg asbestos lawyer exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades, it was used in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with la habra heights asbestos lawyer were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform an examination and request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They can then become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may breathe them when they clean the clothing.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it's essential to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this condition. These include chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examinations and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can increase the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.