Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build cars, homes, and buildings. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble 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, and each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is discovered, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, 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 have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

asbestos settlement fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos claim 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 then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and 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 as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher 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 is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also occur in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Around 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades it was employed in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

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

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos case fibers on their clothing hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos attorney exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may breathe asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to see a physician if you have symptoms that may be related to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.