Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations prior to its ban in the year 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 in the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs as well as the abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. 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 due to its inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of automobiles, homes, and structures. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.
The initial signs of mesothelioma typically resemble the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to identify. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms could emerge, like fatigue and weight loss.
There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and the peritoneal. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and disrupts their function.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is detected the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of all mesothelioma diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma in their family. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma, the most prevalent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time, cells become damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins before it shows its first signs. The symptoms are often confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.
Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient is suffering from. The biopsy may be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors take tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The mesothelioma cell can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid with the first two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive 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 diagnosis.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) however it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For a long time it was utilized in many American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in buildings, ships automobiles and many other products. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. West Palm Beach asbestos lawsuits is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma type and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to visit your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.
Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. These individuals could inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members can inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is rare, it's important to seek out a physician if your symptoms are related to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties, or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examinations and a chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.
The right treatment can boost the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about this condition and the treatments available. We'll deliver it to you free of charge, no commitment. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask a nurse 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 get the justice they deserve.