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How To Beat Your Boss On Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

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

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

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. Asbestos exposure is the sole known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was cheap and fire-resistant. 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 materials can cause mesothelioma for years after exposure.

The first symptoms of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, may appear.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common form is pleural, which affects the linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinctive symptoms, but all types are identified by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and disrupts their function.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under the microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a poorer 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 and military veterans and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation treatments related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside, including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing mesothelioma is increased when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that happen cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. Symptoms of mesothelioma vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is also a symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to show. Often, the symptoms are mistaken for other diseases like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases.

Doctors usually do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her prior exposure to asbestos and then perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases.

The doctor might also recommend imaging scans and blood tests for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests could include CT scans or MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine which kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

In a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the former two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is most often found in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It usually takes 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and protect automobiles, ships, buildings and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. These fibers can be easily inhaled or swallowed and can irritate the mesothelium. As time passes irritation can lead to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

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

Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is crucial to see your doctor if any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may 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 there is any changes in your body that could be connected to mesothelioma.

Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos frequently brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes, skin and hair. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure that is secondhand.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.

Asbestos exposure is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. Then, they can become trapped in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as family members of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, and family members may breathe them when they clean the clothing.


Although mesothelioma is rare, it's essential to consult a doctor if your symptoms are related to this disease. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also conduct a chest X ray and a physical examination to look for mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma has been identified. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced.

The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and what treatments are available. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can speak to nurses any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a free consultation about filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the amount of compensation you deserve.

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