Why The Biggest "Myths" About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma Could Be True

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma afflicts the linings of organs internal to them. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers as well as shipyard and factory workers and veterans are at greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, develops in the protective linings that cover various organs within the body called the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also form in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only known cause of 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 to build cars, homes, and buildings. People who worked on these projects could 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 because the first 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 can emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.

There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include the peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumour that surrounds the vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 year to show its first symptoms. It is often mistaken for other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos legal exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. At this stage the doctor will generally inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested 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 a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in many American industries because of its low cost and resistance to fire. The Asbestos Legal industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time irritation can lead to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in 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 like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos settlement exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors to form.

The exposure to asbestos is the primary mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They may then get trapped in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in people who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's essential to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also contact an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma suit. We're committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.