Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, is found in the linings that protect various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue, could develop.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma lawsuits are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma attorneys. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma lawyers. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

The symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.

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

When they perform the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30% and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

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

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. For a long time it was utilized in a variety of American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lung. This is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other illnesses. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for mesothelioma attorney

Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.

Exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get lodged in 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 as well as relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence, it is important to see a physician when you experience symptoms that may be related to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.