Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs of the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. 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 is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on contrary, accounts for just 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to norwood asbestos lawyer at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

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

During an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades 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 fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate 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. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary Hempstead Asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and consumed. Then, they can become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos, especially those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothing.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

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

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll send it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.