Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.

What is mesothelioma lawsuits?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Around 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 cheap and fire-resistant. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma lawyers to develop for decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, could develop.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common mesothelioma attorneys. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. 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 signs to show. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mix of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships automobiles and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma may affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

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

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

mesothelioma lawyers 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 even family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this disease and the treatments available. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. 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 amount of compensation you deserve.