The 10 Most Scariest Things About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is one of the types of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran workers are at greatest risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance 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 the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, could develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, however all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.

When 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 area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found, the patient can be diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. It is often misinterpreted as other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.

In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the type of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or an minimally invasive process.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatment and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the two first types and is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lung's lining (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral has properties that resist heat. For decades it was utilized in many American industries due to its affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As turlock asbestos attorney passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which could result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there is any changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, like other cancers starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor for any symptoms that may be related to the disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests can include computed tomography (CT) scan and positron emission imaging (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get 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 by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.