20 Myths About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma: Dispelled

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 exposure to asbestos.

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

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and interferes with their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on contrary, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma attorney diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove 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 type is more responsive to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most frequent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are forming in your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma attorney starts when cells within the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, before 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 certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

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

Although mesothelioma lawsuits is rare however, it is essential to see a doctor for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest Xray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (harmon-steen-2.blogbright.net). We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the amount of compensation you deserve.