Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos Disease
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs, most commonly the lung (pleura) and, less frequently, the abdomen (peritoneum). The chance of developing the disease is increased when asbestos is exposed.
Exposure to asbestos, which is a mineral fiber resistant to heat and fire is the main risk factor. The symptoms may not manifest for many years after exposure.
Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that develops in the tissues that line the stomach, lungs, and the heart. It typically occurs when asbestos fibers are inhaled and deposited in the organ lining. People who have worked with asbestos, like miners, plumbers and carpenters are the most at risk. It can also occur in those who were asbestos workers who brought it to their homes on their clothes or the skin. Other people at risk include those who work in households in which asbestos is present, and those who are disturbed by asbestos during home renovations or maintenance.
There are four stages of mesothelioma. The early and mid-stages might not have any symptoms and it could take years before they're diagnosed. When they are diagnosed, the cancer is more advanced and difficult to treat.
The signs of mesothelioma generally don't manifest until years after exposure. The disease can last many years to develop because asbestos fibers have to travel from the lungs to other parts of the human body before causing mesothelioma. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) however it could begin in the stomach lining or heart. It can even appear in the tissues of the reproductive organs.
The best method of diagnosing mesothelioma is for a doctor to take a biopsy from the affected area. The sample is examined under a microscope in order to determine if the cancer cells are of mesothelioma or another kind.
Doctors can also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to help identify the problem and determine if there's an abnormality, a thickening of the lining within the abdomen or chest, and fluid in the chest cavity. They may also order lung function tests to see the extent to which the lungs of an individual are working.
A mesothelioma diagnosis mistake can be harmful since it could delay the start of treatment, which could improve the patient's chances of survival. This is why it's important to see a doctor when any symptoms arise. A GP will evaluate the signs and symptoms and check a person's history of exposure to asbestos.
Diagnosis
Mesothelioma, a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the lining that protects organs inside the body including the chest and abdominal cavity. The most commonly encountered mesothelioma form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the outer layer of the lungs (pleura). Mesothelioma is not as common in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), the heart sac (pericardium) as well as in the testicles.
A doctor can detect mesothelioma by taking tissue sample for biopsy or imaging tests. A doctor can determine the mesothelioma's severity that indicates the severity of the disease and how likely to expand.
The most important mesothelioma-related risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a natural mineral fiber that is resistant to fire and heat was widely used in manufacturing and construction activities until the 1970s. Mesothelioma is more frequent for those who worked in asbestos mining, milling pipes, insulators, and pipefitters.
Inhaling asbestos fibers that are tiny can cause mesothelioma. The asbestos fibers can become trapped in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the chances of smoking, which could further increase the risk for mesothelioma.
The risk of mesothelioma increases as time passes in asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is the most prevalent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos in high concentrations.
There are some risk factors that can be altered for example, a person's age or whether they smoke, but most of the mesothelioma risk factors are related to asbestos exposure. Some of these factors are not changeable such as a person's genetics or family history. A person's mesothelioma risk is also increased if they suffer from certain medical conditions or illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes.
Treatment
Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, affects mesothelium, which forms the abdomen, lungs and heart. Mesothelioma can develop in people who have been exposed to asbestos. The disease usually develops for decades after exposure. It is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be similar to other conditions, and they come and go. Those diagnosed with mesothelioma can receive compensation via lawsuits or trust funds.
Mesothelioma is not curable, but treatment options are available to control the disease and improve the quality of life. Patients should consult with doctors who are skilled in treating the disease. Doctors will review a patient's history to identify any signs and potential mesothelioma risks like asbestos exposure.
Exposure to asbestos is the main cause mesothelioma. It is typically caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that float in the air. The asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, causing genetic mutations that could result in cancer. The most prevalent mesothelioma type is called mesothelioma of the pleural region that affects the lung's lining. It can also be found in the linings of the chest wall (pericardium), abdomen and testicles (peritoneal mesothelioma).
Like all cancers, mesothelioma is caused by DNA of a cell that has mutations. The mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably, resulting in an increase in the size of the tumor. Mesothelioma is most commonly found in men who are over 75 and those who have served in the U.S. military.
There are different types of mesothelioma, and each has a different rate of survival. Patients must be aware that mesothelioma is an extremely serious condition and can be extremely difficult to treat. There is hope, however, as research continues to make advances in extending the duration of the life expectancy. Veterans with mesothelioma may also be eligible to receive VA benefits.
Prevention
Mesothelioma is a rare condition however it is highly preventable. Asbestos, a mineral that is naturally occurring was once extensively used in construction, shipbuilding and other industries because of its unique properties, including durability, strength, and insulation. However, the tiny asbestos fibers become airborne when disturbed and if breathed in, they can cause serious health conditions such as mesothelioma.
syracuse asbestos law firm to prevent mesothelioma is to not be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is the main reason for mesothelioma. The majority of people diagnosed with the condition have been exposed to it at some time. Other factors can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma, such as smoking, age, and genetics.
Most commonly, mesothelioma affects the lung (tummy) and lungs. It is extremely rare for mesothelioma develop in any other part of the body. Mesothelioma can take many years to develop and may not manifest until 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos should consult their physician regularly if they experience any unusual symptoms. This includes coughing or a shortness of breath.
Asbestosis symptoms include tightness in the chest, constant coughing, and a blue appearance to the skin because the body is trying to get enough oxygen. Inhaled fibers of asbestos can also irritate lungs and cause scarring, called fibrosis. This can cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs and other organs including the heart. Inflammation can also trigger genetic changes that can cause cancers to grow in the lungs.
There is no cure for asbestosis but there are treatments to manage the symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of life and breathing for patients.
Mesothelioma is most commonly found in the lungs, but it can also affect the stomach, testicles and heart. There is no way to prevent mesothelioma. However there are ways to lower the risk. Ask your employer for safety guidelines and make sure you be sure to check your workplace for asbestos. It is also recommended to wear protective equipment and wash their clothes at work outside of the home so that they are not left on clothing belonging to family members.