Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.
coeur dalene asbestos lawsuit was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
The mesothelium is a protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was employed in the construction of houses, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material could have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after the exposure.
It is difficult to identify mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms can develop, such as fatigue and weight loss.
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that surrounds vital organs and hinders their function.
If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those who have a family history of mesothelioma. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium. Over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is a rare condition and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient’s past asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. Imaging tests could include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnoses are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also form in the abdomen’s lining (peritoneum) or the heart’s lining (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.
Workers who worked with greenfield asbestos lawyer were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health problems. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which could result in tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain, or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.
Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other diseases so it is crucial to visit your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination and physical exam. They may also request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors determine if there are changes within your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors.
The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members may inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it’s important to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this disease. These include chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you’ve ever been exposed to asbestos. They’ll also conduct physical examination and chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These might include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available.
The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even if there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and what treatments are available. We’ll deliver it to you free of cost, with no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family receive the justice you deserve.