Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in the year 1970. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at the greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once popular in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used in the construction of structures, homes, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma lawyer because the first symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like fatigue and weight loss, may develop.

There are four types of mesothelioma lawyer. Each type has a different prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung lining and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under the microscope. If cancer is found and the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid mesothelioma or sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% mesothelioma in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing the disease than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related family history. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at chance of developing mesothelioma.

The symptoms of mesothelioma lawyer

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma lawsuits rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleuralnsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships cars, and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes the irritation causes scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other illnesses. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct an examination and order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes within your body that could be related to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing hair, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors.

The exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. Then, they can become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos particularly those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members can breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases however, it is essential to consult a doctor for any symptoms that could be linked to the disease. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct physical examination and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. These could include chemo, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also reach a lawyer for a free consultation on filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.