Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in the year 1970. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may appear.
There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has an individual prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged. The genetic changes that happen result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. bakersfield asbestos lawsuit is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 year to begin showing symptoms. It is often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and determine the kind of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector in which it was utilized as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships cars and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of exposure to asbestos.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. The fibers can be 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 can affect various parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. This is the most frequent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing 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.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are evident within your body.
Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to see a doctor if you have symptoms that may be related to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatments available. We'll ship it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also reach us by calling 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.