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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers, shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may be observed, including fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had Temple asbestos Lawyer-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Most of the time, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically doctors don’t connect mesothelioma with griffith asbestos attorney exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her prior exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

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

During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also occur in the abdomen’s lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For many years, it was used in a variety of American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence and affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is crucial to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will perform an examination and request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident within your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. These individuals could then inhale west point asbestos lawsuit fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

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

The exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They may then get stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common 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 relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor for any symptoms that could be linked to the disease. These include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They’ll also conduct a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a 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 could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we’ll email it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.