Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that surround different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. parker asbestos law firm was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was employed in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has unique symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to check for the presence of 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 accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

berryville asbestos lawyer fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. 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 symptoms to show. It is often mistaken for other illnesses such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.

During a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a mix of the two types and is responsible for between 30 and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found 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 is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation causes scar tissue to grow, leading to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

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

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to see a physician if you have symptoms that may be related to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to highland heights asbestos attorney. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest Xray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the available treatments. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.