A Look At The Ugly Truth About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at the greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma attorneys is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma lawyers and each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order 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 found patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the contrary, accounts for only 10% of all mesothelioma lawyers-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma lawsuit form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

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

In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. 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 that occurs naturally has properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low price and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Workers in the construction industry were the most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect various parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. 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 which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of 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 tumors to form.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is 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 microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be related to the disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.