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Why No One Cares About Asbestos Exposure Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor.


Asbestos is a heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was 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 greatest danger of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers various organs in the body. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be located in the lungs and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was once a favored 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 chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.

The initial signs of mesothelioma usually resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to determine. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four types of mesothelioma and each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly used kind 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 has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is discovered, the patient can be diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts to 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a poorer prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos and military veterans and those who have mesothelioma history are among these groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues which line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The exposure to asbestos at work increases the chances of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent type of mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs.

Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium and over time, cells become damaged. The genetic changes that occur result in the cells becoming malignant and grow into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain and breathing problems. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer is a rare cancer that can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years to begin showing symptoms. Symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is also difficult to diagnose, as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

Doctors typically do not connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical examination the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.

During the biopsy, doctors remove small pieces of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma-like cells. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a mixture of the two first types and is responsible for between 30 and 40 percent of mesothelioma diagnoses.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is typically found in the lining of the lungs (pleura) but it can also form in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. indiana asbestos attorney is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral that naturally occurs has properties that resist heat. For a long time it was employed in a variety of American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulation material in ships, buildings cars and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of being exposed to asbestos.

Workers who handled asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and may cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes irritation causes scar tissue to accumulate and can cause tumors.

Different types of mesothelioma affect various parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that may cause symptoms such as breathing problems or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations.

Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will do an examination of your body and may require imaging scans to look for any abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are present within your body.

Mesothelioma may not be contagious however, family members of those exposed to asbestos have a higher chance of developing the disease. This is because workers who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. These individuals could then inhale the asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, just like other cancers, starts when the cells of the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They may also reproduce and spread to other parts of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.

Asbestos exposure is the most significant mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral 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 consumed. They can then be encased in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.

The asbestos-related workers, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling in the workplace, have the highest chance of developing mesothelioma. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they clean their clothes.

Although mesothelioma is rare however, it is essential to see a physician when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history, and ask if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. The doctor may also perform a chest X ray and a physical examination to check for mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

If mesothelioma is found to be a cancerous tumor your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These could include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The type of mesothelioma and how far it has progressed will determine which treatments are available.

Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma yet, the correct treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you at no charge, no obligation. You can also contact us at 1-888-314-6906. You can also ask nurses any questions. You can also call an attorney for a free consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones get the justice they deserve.

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