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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miner shipyard, factory and veteran employees are at greatest risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that grows in the protective linings that cover different organs of the body known as the mesothelium. Most commonly, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. Each year, mesothelioma gets diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once popular in American industries because it is inexpensive and fireproof. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure. It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems or chest pain, as well as a persistent cough. As arvada asbestos lawyer progresses, more serious symptoms could be observed, including fatigue and weight loss. There are four different types of mesothelioma. Each kind has a different prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial, or peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However, all types are characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma, they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined using microscope. If cancer is found patients are diagnosed with epithelioid or mesothelioma that is sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70 percent to 80percent of mesothelioma cases, and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma represents only 10 percent of mesothelioma cases, and has a poorer prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. However, certain groups are more likely of being diagnosed with the disease than other. People who work in asbestos and military veterans and those who have mesothelioma-related history are among these groups. People who have had radiation therapy related to asbestos are also at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that line and protect internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed during work. The most prevalent mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma. This affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells become damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and develop into tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 years before it begins to begin showing symptoms. The symptoms are often mistaken for other illnesses, such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to recognize because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Typically doctors don't connect mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the end-stages of mesothelioma. At this stage the doctor will typically ask the patient about his or her previous exposure to asbestos and perform an examination. Doctors can use imaging scans to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases. The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor could also recommend an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma that patient has. The biopsy can be an exploratory or minimally-invasive procedure. When they perform the procedure, doctors take out small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The mesothelioma cells could be epithelioid, sarcomatoid or biphasic, with the two types forming the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more responsive to treatment and has a better chance of survival. The biphasic type is a combination of the two kinds and accounts for between 30 and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is usually found in the lung lining (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the heart's lining (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma is a cancer that typically takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally with properties that are heat-resistant. For a long time, it was used in many American industries because it was affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially 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 asbestos exposure. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. In time, the irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common and affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. This is the most common mesothelioma that can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect the lining of the heart which can cause unusual symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma may be misinterpreted as other illnesses so it is crucial to consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests could include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests can help doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that could be caused by mesothelioma. Although mesothelioma isn't contagious, family members of those who were exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is referred to as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, like other cancers begins when cells in the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other areas of the body, causing the formation of tumors. The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous material used in construction, among other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and ingested. They can then become lodged in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma. The asbestos-related workers, especially those who were responsible for its removal or handling, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. However blue-collar workers as well as relatives of asbestos-related workers are also at risk. Workers could carry asbestos fibers home on their clothing. Family members can inhale asbestos fibers when they wash their clothes. Although mesothelioma can be found in a small percentage of cases It is still important to see a physician if you have symptoms that could be linked to the disease. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all signs. The doctor will inquire about your health history and when you might have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform physical examination and a chest X-ray to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed-tomography (CT) scan, positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If mesothelioma is diagnosed your doctor will discuss with you about possible treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the it has advanced will determine what treatments are available. The right treatment can improve the odds of survival even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this disease and the treatments available. No obligation, we'll email it to you at no cost. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is on hand to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation on filing a mesothelioma suit. We are dedicated to helping you and your family get the compensation you deserve.