snakeant57

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs internal to them. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fire- and heat resistant mineral fiber that was used in many occupations before it was banned in the year 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard, factory, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. A total of 3,000 people in United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure. The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may develop, such as fatigue and weight loss. There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has an individual 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 peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs. When 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 microscope. If cancer is detected, patients can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has been in contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. The asbestos-related workers, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal such as the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to begin to show. Often, the symptoms are misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is often difficult to identify because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases. The doctor might also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure. During the biopsy procedure, doctors will remove tiny pieces of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a combination of the two primary types and is responsible for between 30 and 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. For many years, it was used in many American industries because it is cheap and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors. Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other ailments. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will conduct an examination and request imaging tests to look for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body. Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin, and. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form. Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or ingested. Then, they can become stuck in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most common in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. Blue-collar employees, and even the family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothes, and family members may inhale asbestos fibers when cleaning their clothing. While mesothelioma can be uncommon, it's vital to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include the computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor the doctor will speak with you about the treatment options. huntington beach asbestos lawyer could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available. The right treatment can improve the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the treatment options available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also reach us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can also ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a suit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the justice you deserve.