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The Most Pervasive Issues With Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. The main risk factor is asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers, shipyard and factory employees, and veterans are at greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs of the body. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. It was used to construct cars, homes, and buildings. Workers who handled the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these substances may result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure.

It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to those of other lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a constant cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could develop, such as weight loss and fatigue.

There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each type has a unique prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own unique symptoms, however all types are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function.

When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is taken from the area affected and examined under microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with epithelioid sarcomatoid mesotheliom. Epithelioid Mesothelioma is responsible for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more sensitive. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the other hand, is responsible for just 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.

Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. The asbestos-related workers, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma history are among these groups. Additionally, people who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the tissues that line and protect internal organs, including the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos in the workplace increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing difficulties. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss can also be a sign. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to show its first symptoms. It is often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until mesothelioma that is in late-stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's prior asbestos exposure and conduct an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma, and rule out other diseases.


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 a physician to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.

During the biopsy, doctors take small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma cells. The mesothelioma cells can be epithelioid or biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the former two types accounting for the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatments and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the only cancer recognized to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in many American industries due to its low cost and resistance to fire. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry, where it was used as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings automobiles and other items. People who worked in the construction industry were most at risk of being exposed to asbestos.

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

Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other illnesses, it is important to visit your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your body and may request imaging scans 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 present in your body.

Mesothelioma might not be contagious but relatives of asbestos-related exposure are more likely to developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could then breathe in asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of secondhand asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when the cells of the body begin to grow abnormal and begin to expand uncontrollably. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing the formation of tumors.

asbestos lawyer is the main mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was used in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the microscopic fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then be encased in the linings of specific organs and cause mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothing. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they wash their clothes.

Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will ask you about your medical history, and ask if you have 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 could include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced.

While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the right treatment can increase the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of cost, with no obligation. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.

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