Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.
Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers various organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of cars, homes, and buildings. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may appear.
There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and interferes with their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to look for cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among these groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.
Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases.
In addition to a physical examination, the physician may recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
During an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. st cloud asbestos law firm is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura) however it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ships, buildings, cars and many other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to see your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by the 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 grow in uncontrolled ways. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
Exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material 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 consumed. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to see a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your medical history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.
The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.