Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. 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 automobiles, homes, and structures. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may appear.
There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is detected, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have mesothelioma in their family. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma’s final stages. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient’s or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung’s lining (pleura) but it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart’s lining (pericardium). About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Workers in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos attorney.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue that can result in tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most frequent mesothelioma form and can trigger symptoms like breathing difficulty 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 linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.
Although mesothelioma isn’t contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos claim fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. asbestos claim 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 tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
People who worked with asbestos [iotic.co.kr officially announced] particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it’s vital to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests could include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the available treatments. No obligation, we’ll send it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.