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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma can affect the linings of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs prior to its ban in 1970. Construction workers, miners shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of being exposed. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium is the protective lining that covers the various organs in the body. Most often, mesothelioma maligna is found in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. Asbestos exposure is the only known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build 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 typically resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. The initial symptoms may include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms could be observed, including weight loss and fatigue. There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most common kind is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal (pericardial) testicular and peritoneal. Each type has unique symptoms. However, all types are characterized by an inflamed malignant tumour that surrounds the vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined using a microscopy. If cancer is detected patients are diagnosed with epithelioid, or sarcomatoid mesothelioma. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% all mesothelioma and is more susceptible. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on other hand, is responsible for only 10% of all mesothelioma cases and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has come in contact with asbestos is at the risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups have a greater chance of developing the disease than others. People who work in asbestos, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma. The symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is found in the tissues which line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum), and the peritoneum. hesperia asbestos law firm to asbestos at work increases the risk of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most frequent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate mesothelium. Over time cells are damaged and genetic changes cause them to become malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and trouble breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. It is often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other diseases. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient is in the mesothelioma's final stages. At this stage the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her past exposure to asbestos and perform a physical examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or to rule out other illnesses. In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest imaging scans or blood tests of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests may include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure. During the biopsy, doctors take small samples of mesothelium tissue and look for mesothelioma cells. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a mix of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma most commonly occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after asbestos exposure. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, has heat-resistant properties. It was utilized for a long time in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction sector where it was employed for fireproofing and as an insulation material in buildings, ships cars and other items. Construction workers were the most at risk of asbestos exposure. Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily be swallowed or inhaled and cause irritation to the mesothelium. In time the irritation causes scar tissue that can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma has the highest prevalence, affecting the lining of the chest cavity as well as lungs. It is the most common mesothelioma form, and it can cause symptoms like breathing difficulty or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the abdominal cavity's lining and cause symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing distinctive symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be mistaken for other illnesses and other illnesses, it is essential to consult your doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may request imaging tests to look for abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body. Mesothelioma might not be contagious but family members of those exposed to asbestos are more likely to developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes hair, skin, and. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Like other cancers, mesothelioma starts when cells within 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 to form. Exposure to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma 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 microscopic fibers can be inhaled or consumed. Then, they can become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have worked with asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing, and family members may inhale them when they clean the clothes. Even though mesothelioma may be uncommon, it's vital to consult a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this disease. This includes chest pain, breathing problems or a persistent cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma is diagnosed, your doctor will talk with you about possible treatment options. These may include surgery, chemo or radiation. Treatment options will vary based on the type of mesothelioma and how far along it has advanced. The right treatment can boost the odds of survival even if there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. We can also be reached by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can also ask an experienced nurse any questions. A lawyer can be reached for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We're committed to helping you and your family get the justice you deserve.