What Do You Think? Heck Is Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to diagnose. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may appear.

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

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is discovered, patients can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These groups include people who work in the manorhaven asbestos attorney industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with Lafayette Asbestos Lawyer exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. 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 determine if there are other diseases.

The doctor might also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a physician to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a combination of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Workers in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue that can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like pain, swelling, or digestive problems. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is essential to see your doctor when any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident within your body.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They can then be encased within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to 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 may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest Xray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

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

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also contact us by calling 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.