20 Myths About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma: Busted

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the protective linings that surround various organs within the body known as the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. However, it also can develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of houses, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may develop.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is found, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma, and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

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

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and 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 symptoms to show. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. 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.

During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by Asbestos Legal. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally that is heat-resistant, has properties. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. The most common mesothelioma is one that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to see your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes in your body that may be connected to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious the family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos litigation exposure secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body causing the formation of tumors.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases, it is important to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that may be related to the condition. This includes chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos compensation. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include a 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. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse will be available to answer any questions you may have. You can also contact an attorney for a free consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.