25 Amazing Facts About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma lawyer can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that protect various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma lawyer develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally has properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to consult your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, begins when 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 the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma attorneys and how far along it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you at no charge, no obligation. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.