Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma lawyers affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that protect different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly located in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after the exposure.

The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and 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.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

mesothelioma lawyer occurs in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma attorney form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors form. Symptoms of mesothelioma 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 and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

The physician may also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment 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 diagnoses.

Causes of mesothelioma lawyers

Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed, and can irritate mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.

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

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident within your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma lawsuit is rare, it's important to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

The right treatment can improve the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We're committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.