10 Things You've Learned About Preschool That'll Help You Understand Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at the highest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. 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 cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases, including lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue could develop.
There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with microscope. If cancer is detected, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for just 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Additionally, people who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most frequent mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest 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 may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). About three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings 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 issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue that can cause 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. It is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to see your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious but relatives of those exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells within the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to develop.
Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. They may then get stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Workers who were exposed to asbestos particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members could inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is rare It is still important to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be related to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. stockton asbestos lawyer include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.
While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll send it to you for free. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma suit. We're committed to helping you and your family get the compensation you deserve.