Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos Disease
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lining of internal organs which is most often the lung (pleura) and less often the abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos can result in an increased risk of developing the disease.
The most significant risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos, a non-flammable and heat-resistant fiber. The symptoms may not manifest for decades after exposure.
Signs and symptoms
Mesothelioma, a tumor that is cancerous that develops in the tissues that surrounds the lungs and the heart is caused by asbestos fibers. It usually occurs when asbestos fibers inhale and lodge in the organ lining. People who have worked with asbestos, like miners, plumbers and carpenters, are most at risk. People who live in areas with asbestos-contaminated workers may also be affected. Other people at risk include those who work in households where asbestos is present and those who disturb asbestos during renovations to their homes or maintenance.
There are four stages of mesothelioma. People in the early and middle stages do not show symptoms and may suffer for a while before they are diagnosed. By the time cancer is detected, it has advanced and is difficult to treat.
The symptoms of mesothelioma typically are not evident until decades after exposure. The condition can last for many years to develop because asbestos fibers have to travel from the lungs to other areas of the body before they can cause mesothelioma. The lining of the lungs is the most common site where mesothelioma starts, but it can start in the linings of the heart or stomach. It can also show up in the tissue lining the reproductive organs.
The best way to diagnose mesothelioma is for the doctor to take a biopsy from the affected area. The sample is examined under a microscope in order to determine whether the cancer cells are mesothelioma or another type.
Doctors may request x-rays and CT scans to identify the issue. They can also utilize MRIs to determine if there's an abnormality or the lining of the chest or abdomen has become thicker. They can also check for fluid in the chest cavity. They may also order lung function tests to determine how well the lungs of an individual are working.
A misdiagnosis for mesothelioma may be dangerous, as it can delay treatment, which can improve the prognosis of the patient. It is imperative to seek out a physician when you notice any signs. A GP can assess the symptoms and signs and determine if a person has a history of exposure to asbestos.
Diagnosis
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer, occurs in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the lining which covers organs inside the body including the abdominal cavity and chest. The most commonly encountered form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma that affects the exterior layer of the lungs (pleura). Mesothelioma is less common in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), the heart sac (pericardium) or in the testicles.
A doctor can identify the disease by taking a sample of the tissue for imaging tests or a biopsy. thousand oaks asbestos attorneys can then determine the mesothelioma's stage that indicates how aggressive it is and how likely it is to grow.
The most important mesothelioma-related risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring, heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was used in the manufacturing and construction industries until the late 1970s. People who worked in occupations like asbestos mining, milling, pipefitters, insulators plumbers, as well as those who renovated homes are at higher risk than others of developing mesothelioma.
Inhaling asbestos fibers that are small can cause mesothelioma. These fibers can get trapped in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the risk of someone smoking and increases their risk of developing mesothelioma.
The risk of mesothelioma increases as time passes in asbestos exposure. Those who have been exposed to the highest levels of asbestos are at the greatest risk for mesothelioma.
Certain risk factors can be modified like the age of an individual or whether they smoke. However, the majority of mesothelioma risk is linked to exposure to asbestos. Certain of these risk elements cannot be altered such as a person's genetics or family history. Mesothelioma can more easily occur if a person has certain illnesses or health conditions like heart disease or diabetes.
Treatment
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, affects the mesothelium, which is the line that runs through the abdomen, lungs and the heart. People who are exposed to asbestos are at the risk of developing mesothelioma. The disease typically develops over the years after asbestos exposure. It can be difficult to recognize, as symptoms are often similar to other conditions and can change. Those diagnosed with mesothelioma can receive compensation via lawsuits or trust funds.
There is no cure for mesothelioma, however there are options to treat the disease and improve the quality of your life. Patients should seek out physicians who are experts in treating the disease. Doctors will look over the medical history of a patient to check for symptoms and potential mesothelioma risk factors, such as asbestos exposure.
The most common cause of Mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. It is caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that are floating in the air. These fibers can get stuck in the lungs, creating genetic mutations which can lead to cancer. Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lung and is the most commonly diagnosed type of mesothelioma. It can also affect the tissue of the chest (pericardium) as well as the abdomen and testicles (peritoneal peritoneal cancer).
Like all cancers, mesothelioma can be caused by the DNA of a cell experiencing mutations. These mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and result in an increase in the size of the tumor. Men over 75 years old and veterans of the U.S. armed forces are more likely to develop mesothelioma.
There are several mesothelioma types and each type has a different survival rate. Patients should know that a mesothelioma diagnosis can be serious and can be difficult to treat. There is hope, however as research continues to make advancements in extending the duration of survival. Veterans who have mesothelioma could be eligible for VA benefits.
The following is a list of preventatives.
Mesothelioma is a rare disease that is largely avoidable. Asbestos is a mineral that is naturally occurring that was once used widely in shipbuilding, construction, and other industries because of its unique characteristics of durability, strength, heat insulation and fire resistance. The tiny asbestos fibers can become airborne if disturbed and may cause serious health issues like mesothelioma if inhaled.
The only way to avoid mesothelioma is to not be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma. Most people who are diagnosed with the condition have been exposed at some time or another. Other factors can increase the chance of developing mesothelioma, including smoking, age and genes.
Most commonly, mesothelioma affects the lungs (tummy) and lungs. It is rare for mesothelioma to develop in any other area of the body. Mesothelioma takes many years to grow, and it might not be apparent for 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. It is important that people who have been exposed to asbestos regularly consult their doctor if they are experiencing any unusual symptoms, including breathlessness and coughing.
The signs of asbestosis are tightness in the chest, persistent coughing and a bluish appearance to the skin because the body is trying to get enough oxygen. Inhaled fibers of asbestos can also cause irritation to the lung tissue and cause scarring, known as fibrosis. This can cause a build-up of fluid in the lungs and in other areas of the body, like the heart. Inflammation can trigger genetic changes that can cause cancer to develop in the lung.
There is no cure for asbestosis but there are treatments available to treat the symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of life and the quality of breathing for patients.
Mesothelioma is found most often in the lungs, however it can also affect the stomach, testicles and the heart. It is not usually possible to avoid mesothelioma however, there are steps individuals can take to lower their risk of exposure. Ask your employer for safety guidelines and make sure to be sure to check your workplace for asbestos. It is also an excellent idea to wear protective equipment and wash their workplace clothes outside of their home so that they are not carried home on clothing belonging to family members.