Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in a variety of occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at the greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that cover various organs in the body known as the mesothelium. Mesothelioma that is malignant is typically found in the lungs and abdomen. It can also develop in the linings of the heart or the testes (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. The only known cause of this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries due to its affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of 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 chemicals could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma due to the fact that the first signs are similar to those of other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may be observed, including weight loss and fatigue.
There are four types of mesothelioma, and each type has a different prognosis. The most prevalent type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) and testicular and peritoneal. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized by an inflamed malignant tumor that surrounds the vital organs.
When doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will order an examination of the biopsy site to determine the presence of cancerous cells. A sample of the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with either epithelioid or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma in all cases and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, is responsible for only 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma.
Anyone who has come into contact with asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, certain groups have a greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease than other. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma in their family. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at 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 risk of developing mesothelioma. The most common mesothelioma type is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes make them malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue and nausea. 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 symptoms to appear. It is often mistaken for other illnesses, such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.
Typically, doctors do not connect mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. The doctor will ask about the patient's prior asbestos exposure, and then perform an examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other illnesses.
In addition to a physical examination the doctor may also recommend blood tests or imaging scans of the abdomen and chest. Imaging tests could include CT scans, MRIs, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine what mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy may be an exploratory surgery or an minimally invasive process.
In an examination, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and tends to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a better prognosis. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the lung linings and the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around three thousand people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in a variety of 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 buildings, ships, automobiles and other products. Those who worked in the construction industry were among those most at risk for exposure to asbestos.
Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health issues. These fibers are easily swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. Over time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which could cause tumors.
Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma is one that affects the lining in the chest cavity and lung. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and can cause symptoms like breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms like pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.
Since mesothelioma is often mistaken for other diseases, it is important to consult your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are forming in your body.
Mesothelioma may not be contagious but family members of asbestos-related exposure have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothing, skin and hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Like other cancers mesothelioma develops when cells in the body develop abnormalities and begin to expand uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, causing tumors (masses) to form.
The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral used in construction, among other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers can be inhaled and consumed. They may then get lodged in the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma.
The asbestos-related workers and were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothes, and family members could inhale them when they clean the clothing.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence however, it is essential to consult a doctor when you experience symptoms that could be linked to the condition. They may include chest pain, breathing difficulties or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and chest X-ray to look for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the right treatment can improve the chances of survival. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll send it to you at no cost. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. nashua asbestos attorney are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.