Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma 10 Things I Wish I'd Known In The Past Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos was an extremely fire- and heat- resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miners, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at highest risk of being exposed.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the liner that protects the 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 lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to construct homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. Initial symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms can emerge, like weight loss and fatigue.

There are four types of mesothelioma, and 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 include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid, or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma patients and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which protect and line internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time, cells become 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, fatigue weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be utilized by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical exam, the physician may recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. Imaging tests can include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgical procedure or an minimally invasive process.

When they perform the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic form is a combination of the two first types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lung's lining (pleura) but it can also occur in the abdomen's lining (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. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used to insulate and protect vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing problems or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin, and. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma


Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells within the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a mineral that was fibrous that was used in construction, as well as other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers may be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged in the lining of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Workers who were exposed to asbestos and were responsible for removing or handling it and handling it, are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, while family members may inhale asbestos fibers while cleaning the clothing.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all indications. The doctor will ask you about your medical history and whether you've ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray of the chest and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine which treatments are available.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are 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 an experienced nurse any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation regarding filing a mesothelioma suit. colorado springs asbestos lawsuit are committed to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.