20 Quotes That Will Help You Understand Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at most risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.
The first signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to those of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties, chest pain and an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, could develop.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma, and each type has an individual prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request 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 found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher chance of developing mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed during work. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos, and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. For many years, it was used in many American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, where it was employed to insulate and strengthen automobiles, ships, buildings and other products. Workers in the construction industry were most susceptible to exposure to asbestos.
Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate, leading to tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. hayward asbestos lawyer has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests help doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing, hair and skin. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in the construction industry and other fields before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to look for mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. You can also call a lawyer for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma suit. We're committed to helping you and your family receive the compensation you deserve.