10 Quick Tips About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at most risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body called the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma attorney-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of structures, homes as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all 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 is taken from the affected area and examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma lawyers cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among these groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

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

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors develop. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two primary types and accounts between 30 and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma lawsuit to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings cars, and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos.

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

Different mesothelioma types 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 mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties 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 linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used in construction and other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma lawyers. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. They may include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examinations and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma lawsuits. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, without obligation. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.