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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure. Asbestos was a heat- and fire resistant mineral fiber used in a variety of jobs before it was banned in the year 1970. Construction workers, miners as well as shipyard and factory workers, and veterans are at most risk of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that surround various organs within the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, mesothelioma maligna develops in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or in the testes (pericardium). Each year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in a few thousand Americans. The exposure to asbestos is the only known mesothelioma-related cause. Asbestos is a fibrous substance that was once popular in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used to construct automobiles, homes, and structures. Workers who handled or cut the material may have been exposed. Exposure to these chemicals could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. It is difficult to diagnose mesothelioma since the initial symptoms are similar to other illnesses like lung cancer. Early symptoms include breathing difficulties and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, like weight loss and fatigue, could develop. There are four different kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a distinct prognosis. The most commonly used type is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung's lining as well as the chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each type has its own distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that is located around vital organs. If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to look for cancerous cells. Billings asbestos lawyer is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope. If cancer is discovered the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid Mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 80% of mesothelioma, and is more responsive. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10% of mesothelioma cases and has a worse prognosis. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk for mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at risk of developing mesothelioma than others. The asbestos-related workers and military veterans and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. In addition, those who have received asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of mesothelioma. Signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that line and protect the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. Exposure to asbestos at work increases the chance of developing mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent type of 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 develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea and fatigue. Weight loss is another symptom. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years before it shows its first signs. Symptoms are often misinterpreted as other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is not easy to identify as it is rare and the symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the late stages of mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's past asbestos exposure and perform an examination. Imaging scans can be used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma or rule out other illnesses. The doctor may also suggest scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests can include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. The doctor might also request an examination to confirm the mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine what type of mesothelioma a patient is suffering from. The biopsy can be an exploratory surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. When they perform a biopsy, doctors remove mesothelium from small amounts and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The Sarcomatoid type is less receptive to treatment and has shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a superior prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination 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 be found in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the only cancer that has been proven to be caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 50 years to develop following exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that occurs naturally has properties that resist heat. It was used for decades in a variety of American industries due to its low price and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was particularly profitable for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof vehicles, ships, buildings and other items. Workers in the construction industry were the most susceptible to exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers which can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily inhale or swallowed, and they can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue, which can result in tumors. Different types of mesothelioma can affect different parts of the body. The most prevalent mesothelioma type affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most frequent form of mesothelioma, and it can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. It can also affect linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pain or palpitations. Because mesothelioma can be mistaken for other diseases, it is important to see your physician if you notice any symptoms or signs. Your doctor will perform an examination of your body and may request imaging scans to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident within your body. Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but relatives of asbestos-related patients have a higher chance of developing the disease. People who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. The asbestos-related exposure could cause breathing problems for those who breathed 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 grow out of control. They may also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body causing tumors to form. The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was utilized in the construction industry and other fields before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They can then become lodged within the linings of certain organs, causing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is most common in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing it or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even family members of asbestos workers are also at risk. Workers might carry asbestos fibers in their clothing, while family members may breathe them when they clean the clothes. Even though mesothelioma may be rare, it's important to seek out a physician to determine if your symptoms are connected to this disease. Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a persistent cold are all indications. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and if you've 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. Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you if mesothelioma has been diagnosed. This could include chemotherapy, surgery or radiation. The treatment options will be based on the type of mesothelioma and how far it has advanced. The right treatment can improve the chances of survival, even though there isn't a cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about the disease and the treatments available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you for free. You can also contact us by dialing 1-888-3146906. You can speak to an experienced nurse any questions. You can also contact 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.