Mesothelioma and asbestos lawyer Exposure

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of organs within. The primary risk factor is exposure to asbestos law.

Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at the most risk of exposure.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is found in the linings that protect various organs in the body called the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. However, it also can form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos was once a favored fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used to construct homes, buildings, ships, airplanes and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these chemicals could cause mesothelioma for a long time after exposure.

It is difficult to identify mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other diseases such as lung cancer. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing or chest pain, as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue may appear.

There are four distinct types of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However they all are identified by an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs.

If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they may request a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. A tissue sample taken from the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is discovered the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of all mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma accounts for only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a worse prognosis.

Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased chance of developing mesothelioma.

Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is found in the tissues that line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) as well as the abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.

Asbestos fibers cause irritation to the mesothelium. As time passes cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors can develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ, but common ones are chest pain, coughing and breathing problems. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Most of the time, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma is extremely difficult to identify, because it is not common and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses.

Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma and asbestos litigation exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. At this stage, the doctor will usually inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos, and perform an examination. Imaging scans are a method used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.

In addition to a physical exam the doctor might also suggest blood tests or imaging scans of the chest and abdomen. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. A biopsy can be requested by a physician to confirm a mesothelioma diagnose and to determine which mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure.

When they perform the procedure, doctors take out mesothelium in small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter life. The epithelioid type is more receptive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic variant is a mixture of the two first kinds and accounts for between 30% and 40 percent of all diagnoses of mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lung linings as well as the abdomen. It may also be present in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Around 3000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma growth after exposure.

Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. It was extensively used in many American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.

Workers who dealt with asbestos or removed it were exposed to fibers that are sharp and can cause serious health issues. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled, and can irritate mesothelium. In time, the irritation leads to scar tissue, which can result in tumors.

Different mesothelioma types affect different parts of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common, affecting the lining of the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent form of mesothelioma and can trigger symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart causing unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations.

Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases and other illnesses, it is essential to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests can assist doctors determine if there are any changes in your body that may be caused by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because those who were exposed to asbestos often brought home Asbestos Legal fibers on their clothes hair, skin and even their hair. They could breathe asbestos fibers. This type of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure.

Treatment for Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body causing tumors to form.

The exposure to asbestos is the main mesothelioma-related risk factor. Asbestos was a fibrous material that was used in construction, as well as other industries, before it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed, the microscopic fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become lodged in the linings of specific organs, causing mesothelioma.

People who worked with asbestos, 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 home on their clothes. Family members may breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.

While mesothelioma can be rare, it's essential to see a doctor to determine if your symptoms are connected to this condition. Trouble breathing, chest pain or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your health history and if you have been exposed to asbestos. They will also perform a physical exam and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT) or positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in case mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and the far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.

The right treatment can increase the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to find out more about the disease and the treatment options available. We'll send it to you free of charge, no obligation. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. A nurse is available to answer your questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed in helping you and your loved ones receive the justice they deserve.