10 Quick Tips About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may develop.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has distinct 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 type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissue that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells are damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. peoria asbestos law firm will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. 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 can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate which can lead to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform an examination and physical exam. They may also require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at greater risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them 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 referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members may breathe asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examinations and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests could include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll deliver it to you at no charge, no commitment. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the amount of compensation they deserve.