Mesothelioma and asbestos law Exposure

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

Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at most risk of being exposed.

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, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only reason that has been identified for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. 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. People who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these substances can cause mesothelioma for years after the exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. The initial signs include chest pain, trouble breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma include the peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for less than 10% of mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with Asbestos Legal is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more at risk of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These groups include people who work in the asbestos industry, military veterans and those with a family history of mesothelioma. In addition, those who have had asbestos compensation-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that protect and line internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to mesothelium and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to show. Symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other diseases.

Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.

The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by the doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive procedure.

In an examination, doctors remove mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cell can be epithelioid or sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the first two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is not as responsive to treatment and has shorter lives. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. About 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with heat-resistant properties. It was used for decades in many American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, where it was used for fireproofing and as an insulation material in ships, buildings cars, and other products. Workers in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.

Workers who handled or removed asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can lead to tumors.

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

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your physician if you notice any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and may order imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests can include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease however, family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing 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

Like other cancers, mesothelioma begins when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

The exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor of mesothelioma. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale asbestos settlement fibers while cleaning the clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to see a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all signs. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about treatment options. These could include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the right treatment can increase the chances of survival. Download your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of charge, no obligation. You can also reach us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can also ask a nurse any questions. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation regarding filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the amount of compensation they deserve.