The Top Reasons For Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma's Biggest "Myths" Concerning Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma May Actually Be Right Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. The most significant risk factor is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?


The mesothelium is the liner that protects the organs of the body. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in approximately 3,000 Americans. Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was once a popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers who handled, removed or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these materials could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing difficulties and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four kinds of mesothelioma. 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) and testicular and the peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However each type is characterized by 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 area affected and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70 percent to 80% of all mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the contrary, accounts for only 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. Workers in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs in the internal, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma, 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 result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, and it can take from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's previous asbestos exposure, and then perform a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.

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

During a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid with the former two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and tends to have shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic variant is a combination of the two primary types and accounts between 30% and 40 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally, has heat-resistant properties. For many years, it was used in a variety of American industries due to its inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially profitable for the construction industry where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ship construction, buildings, cars, and other products. People who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that could cause serious health problems. These fibers can be easily inhaled and swallowed and can cause irritation to mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could lead to tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most common mesothelioma type affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma form, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity which can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses, it is important to consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there is any changes in your body that could be caused by mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma does not transmit the family members of those exposed to asbestos are at greater risk for developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. The asbestos fibers could then be breathed in by asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, begins when cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to develop.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

san angelo asbestos lawyer 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 as well as relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members can inhale these fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to see a physician if you have symptoms that could be linked to the condition. These include chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform an X-ray chest scan and a physical exam to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma has been diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about treatment options. These might include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma, and how far it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can improve the chance of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to know more about the disease and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can ask an experienced nurse any questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones receive the compensation they deserve.