The 10 Scariest Things About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses, including lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma attorneys-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This 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 chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to begin to show. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this point the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.

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

During a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two types and is responsible for between 30% and 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs that is heat-resistant, has properties. For decades, it was used in a variety of American industries because it is inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were among those most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining 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 ailments. It is essential to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma attorney is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They may then get trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to see a doctor for any symptoms that could be related to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and a chest Xray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These could include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma attorneys, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you at no charge, no commitment. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma lawsuit (to Blogbright). We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.