20 Myths About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma: Dispelled

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. 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 homes, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

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

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma attorney patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

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

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

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

During a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two primary kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma attorney gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings, cars and many other products. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered type of mesothelioma lawyer affects the lining of the chest cavity and lung. This is the most frequent 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 lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma attorneys-related changes are forming in your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious 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, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no commitment. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.