7 Small Changes That Will Make An Enormous Difference To Your Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor.

Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations before it was banned in 1970. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that surround different organs of the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Each year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the sole known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle 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. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances could cause mesothelioma to develop for decades after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma are usually similar to the symptoms of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal (pericardial), testicular, and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and hinders their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to check for the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is detected, the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside such as the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lung.

Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes cells are damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and include coughing, chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. 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 illnesses.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses.

The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer known to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry, where 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 handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect various parts of the body. The most commonly encountered type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity as well as the lung. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. lawton asbestos lawyer may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms can be mistaken with other illnesses. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms appear. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin, and. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma


Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, is a result of cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material employed in construction, and other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres are ingested and inhaled. They can then become trapped in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos, especially 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 asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothing. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to consult a doctor if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct an X-ray chest scan and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine what treatments are available.

Although there is no cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and what treatments are 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 any questions you may have. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family receive the amount of compensation you deserve.