Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at highest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma attorney due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma lawsuit they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on contrary, accounts for less than 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among the groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma attorneys is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.

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

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

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 the pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each 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 mineral that naturally occurs that is heat-resistant, has properties. For decades it was employed in a variety of American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative 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 worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect various parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. mesothelioma lawyer can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing hair, skin, and. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or ingested. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.