The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs before it was banned in 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that surround various organs within the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma lawyers gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it is affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial symptoms may include breathing difficulties, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has an individual prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases 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 at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. mesothelioma lawsuits is often difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter lives. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. For decades it was employed in many American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in ship construction, buildings cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can result in tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. mesothelioma lawyers can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit however, relatives of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine the type of treatment available.
Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free mesothelioma attorney guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll ship it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also reach us by calling us at 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 (review). We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.