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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that cover various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that is located around vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. This includes people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but include chest pain, coughing and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient is in the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.

The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive procedure.

During the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. 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 most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that are heat-resistant. For decades it was employed in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos lawsuit were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue, which could result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma type and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma may 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 home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin, and. They could then breathe in asbestos compensation fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos 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 and spread to other parts of the body causing the formation of tumors.

The exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or consumed. They may then get stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray 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 has been diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about the treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out 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 at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.