Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. The primary 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 1970. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at highest danger of exposure.

What is mesothelioma lawyer?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is found in the linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form 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 was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that surrounds the vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma attorneys is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type 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 confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

The doctor might also recommend blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. 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 because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships 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 swallowed and inhaled 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 that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or discomfort. mesothelioma attorneys can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater chance of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin and hair. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

Asbestos exposure is the most significant risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma 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 those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing.

Although mesothelioma lawsuit can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to see a doctor for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the odds of survival even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also call an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.