Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner, shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. asbestos claim was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including weight loss and fatigue could develop.
There are four distinct types 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 types of mesothelioma are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos compensation is exposed at work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient’s prior asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.
The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process.
During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. For many years it was employed in a variety of American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings automobiles, and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence that affects the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other diseases. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher 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 breathe asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos lawyer exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors.
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. asbestos case is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos attorney workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale them when they clean the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a physician for any symptoms that could be related to the disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatment options available. We’ll ship it to you at no cost, with no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.