Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma lawsuits, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at highest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that protect various organs in the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

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

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsies to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos-related workers or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among the groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma lawsuit.

Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (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 the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma attorney can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this point the doctor will generally ask the patient about his or her past exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

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

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mix of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also occur in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulating material in buildings, ships automobiles, and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time irritation can lead to scar tissue that can cause tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform 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 can help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that may be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells within the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.

Exposure to asbestos is the most significant risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma attorneys.

Mesothelioma is most common in 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 relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to see a physician for any symptoms that may be related to the condition. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family get the compensation you deserve.