The 10 Most Scariest Things About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at greatest risk of being exposed. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium acts as a liner that protects the organs in the body. Malignant mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure. It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, trouble breathing and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma history are among these groups. Also, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases. Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and determine if there are other diseases. The doctor might also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure. During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings cars, and other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of being exposed to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect various parts of the body. The most prevalent type of mesothelioma affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. cleveland asbestos lawsuit is the most prevalent mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will conduct an examination and physical exam. They may also order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident in your body. Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing hair, skin and hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form. The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or ingested. They can then become stuck in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members may inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes. While mesothelioma can be rare, it's essential to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. This could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the available treatments. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse will be available to answer your questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.