Mesothelioma - A Rare asbestos lawsuit Disease

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the lining of internal organs, most commonly the lung (pleura) and less often the abdomen (peritoneum). Exposure to asbestos results in an higher risk of developing this disease.

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure asbestos, which is a heat- and fire-resistant mineral fiber. However, symptoms may take years to develop following exposure.

Symptoms

Mesothelioma, a tumor that is cancerous that develops in the tissues of the lungs and the heart is caused by asbestos fibers. Typically, it occurs when people inhale asbestos fibers, which enter the bloodstream, and later get lodged in the lining of organs. The most susceptible to contracting this condition are those who worked with asbestos settlement, like miners, plumbers carpenters, welders and carpenters. It can also occur in people who lived with workers who brought asbestos to their homes on their clothes or the skin. Other people at risk are 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. Patients in the early and mid-stages don't show any symptoms and can go on for a long time before being diagnosed. When they are diagnosed, the cancer is more advanced and difficult to treat.

The symptoms of mesothelioma do not typically show up until years after the exposure. The disease takes a long time to develop because asbestos fibers must be transported from the lungs into different parts of the body before they can cause mesothelioma. The lining of the lungs is the most typical place where mesothelioma begins however it could start in the linings of the stomach or the heart. It can also show up in the linings of the reproductive organs.

A biopsy of the area affected is the best way for a doctor diagnose mesothelioma. The biopsy is then examined under microscopes to determine whether the cancerous cells are mesothelioma or a different type of cancer.

Doctors can also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to help identify the problem and determine if there is a tumor, a thickening or enlargement of the lining in the abdomen or chest, and fluid in the chest cavity. They may also order a lung function test to measure how well a person's lungs are functioning.

A misdiagnosis of mesothelioma can be harmful because it can delay the beginning of treatment, which could improve the prognosis of a patient. This is why it's important to see a doctor when any symptoms arise. A GP can assess the signs and symptoms and check a person's history of exposure to asbestos.

Diagnosis

Mesothelioma, which is a type of cancer, develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the lining that covers the body's internal organs, including the chest and abdominal cavity. Pleural mesothelioma can affect the outer layer (pleura) of the lungs. Mesothelioma is less frequently seen to be found in the membrane that runs along the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart sac (pericardium) and, very rarely, it can develop in the testicles (tunica vaginalis mesothelioma or tunica vaginalis testicular mesothelioma).

A doctor can diagnose mesothelioma by taking a tissue sample for biopsy or imaging tests. A doctor will determine the mesothelioma's severity and determine how aggressive it is and how likely it is to expand.

The most important risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring, heat and fire-resistant mineral fiber that was employed in manufacturing and construction up to the late 1970s. The people who worked in jobs such as asbestos mining or milling, insulators, pipefitters plumbers, as well as those who renovated homes are at higher risk than other people of developing mesothelioma.

Inhaling the tiny asbestos fibers could cause mesothelioma. These tiny asbestos fibers can get trapped in the lungs and cause inflammation that causes lung scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the likelihood of smoking, which may further increase the risk for mesothelioma.

A person's risk for mesothelioma increases with the amount of time they've been exposed to asbestos. The people who have been exposed to the highest levels of asbestos are at greatest chance of developing mesothelioma.

There are a few risk factors that can be altered, such as the age of a person or whether they smoke, but the majority mesothelioma risk factors are linked to asbestos lawyer exposure. Certain risk factors cannot be altered like the history of a family member or genetics. Mesothelioma is more likely to occur if a person has certain health issues or illnesses like heart disease or diabetes.

Treatment

Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium that lines the lungs, abdomen and heart. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos are at risk of developing mesothelioma. The disease usually develops for decades after asbestos exposure. It can be difficult to identify because symptoms can be similar to other conditions and come and go. Mesothelioma patients can be compensated through lawsuits or trust funds.

Mesothelioma has no cure however, treatments are available to control the disease and improve quality of life. Patients should seek out physicians who are experts in treating the disease. Doctors will examine the medical history of a patient to determine if there are any symptoms and potential mesothelioma risk factors, including asbestos exposure.

Exposure to asbestos is the most frequent cause of mesothelioma. It is usually caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that hang in the air. The asbestos fibers can be stuck in the lungs and cause genetic mutations that result in cancer. The most commonly encountered form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. It can also affect the chest lining (pericardium), abdomen, and testicles (peritoneal peritoneal cancer).

Mesothelioma, as with all cancers, is caused by DNA changes in a cell. These mutations lead the cell to expand in uncontrolled ways, resulting in an increase in the size of the tumor. Mesothelioma is the most common type of cancer in those over the age of 75 and those who have served in the U.S. military.

There are different mesothelioma types, and each has a distinct rate of survival. Patients should be aware that a mesothelioma diagnosis can be serious and can be difficult to treat. There is hope, though, as research continues to make advancements in extending the duration of the life expectancy. Veterans with mesothelioma may also be eligible for VA benefits.

Prevention

Mesothelioma is a rare disease however it is highly treatable. Asbestos is a natural mineral that was previously used extensively in shipbuilding, construction and other industries because of its unique characteristics of strength, durability, heat insulation and fire resistance. However, the tiny fibers of asbestos become airborne when disturbed and if inhaled, could cause serious health issues such as mesothelioma.

The only way to prevent mesothelioma is not to be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure is the primary reason for mesothelioma and many people who are diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at some time throughout their lives. Smoking or aging, as well as genetics can increase the risk of mesothelioma.

The majority of mesothelioma cases affect the lung (tummy) and lungs. Rarely does mesothelioma develop in other areas of the body. Mesothelioma is a lengthy process to develop, and it could not manifest for 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. It is essential that those who have been exposed to asbestos case regularly consult their doctor if they are experiencing any unusual symptoms, especially coughing and shortness of breath.

Symptoms of asbestosis include tightness in the chest, persistent coughing, and a blue appearance to the skin due to the body is trying to get enough oxygen. Inhaled asbestos fibers can also irritate the lungs, leading to scarring known as fibrosis. This can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs and other body parts including the heart. Inflammation can cause genetic changes, which could cause cancers to grow in the lungs.

There is no cure for asbestosis however, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms. These treatments can improve breathing and the quality of life for patients.

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the lungs and tummy but can also affect the heart, stomach and testicles. There is no way to avoid mesothelioma. However there are ways to lower the risk. They should always check for asbestos in the workplace and inquire with their employer for safety guidelines they must adhere to. Wearing protective gear and washing work clothes away from home is a good idea to ensure that asbestos fibers are not brought home on the clothing of family members.