Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos Disease
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that occurs in the interior organs' linings which is most often the lung (pleura) and, less frequently the abdomen (peritoneum). The exposure to asbestos causes an increased risk of developing this disease.
The exposure to asbestos, which is an inert mineral that is resistant to heat and fire is the main risk factor. However, symptoms could be delayed for a long time after exposure.
Signs and symptoms
Mesothelioma, a cancerous tumor that develops in the tissue of the lungs and the heart, is caused by asbestos fibers. It usually occurs when asbestos fibers are breathed in and lodge in the organ lining. People who have worked with asbestos, like plumbers, miners and carpenters, are the most at risk. People who live in areas with asbestos-contaminated workers may also be affected. Other people at risk are those who live in a home where asbestos is present and those who are disturbed by asbestos during renovations to their homes or maintenance.
There are four stages to mesothelioma. Early and mid-stages may not have any symptoms and it could take years before they're diagnosed. By the time they get diagnosed the cancer is advanced and difficult to treat.
Symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not show up 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 human body before they cause mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases begin in the lung lining (pleural mesothelioma) but it can begin in the lining of the stomach or heart. It may also be found in the tissues of the reproductive organs.
A biopsy of the affected area is the most effective way to help doctors to diagnose mesothelioma. The specimen is then examined under a microscope to determine if the cancerous cells are mesothelioma or a different kind of cancer.
Doctors can also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to determine the cause and determine if there's a tumor, thickening of the lining in the abdomen or chest, and fluid in the chest cavity. They can also request an examination of lung function to measure how well a person's lungs are functioning.
A misdiagnosis of mesothelioma can be harmful, as it can delay treatment, which could improve the outlook of the patient. This is why it's crucial to consult a physician when any symptoms arise. A GP can assess the signs and symptoms and check a person's previous exposure to asbestos.
Diagnosis
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that occurs in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a protective layer that covers many internal organs of the body which includes the abdominal cavity and the chest cavity. Pleural mesothelioma affects the outer layer (pleura) of the lung. Mesothelioma is rarer in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and the heart sac (pericardium) as well as in the testicles.
Wyoming asbestos attorney can diagnose mesothelioma by taking a tissue sample for biopsy or imaging tests. The doctor will determine the degree of mesothelioma. This is an indication of how aggressive and likely to grow.
Exposure to asbestos is the biggest risk factor. Asbestos, a natural mineral fiber resistant to fire and heat was widely used in manufacturing and construction activities up to the 1970s. Mesothelioma is more common in people who have been employed in asbestos milling, mining pipefitters, insulators and milling.
Inhaling asbestos fibers that are small can cause mesothelioma. The asbestos fibers can become stuck in the lungs, which can cause inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the chances of smoking, which may further increase the risk for mesothelioma.
The risk of mesothelioma is increased as time passes in asbestos exposure. The people who have been exposed to the most asbestos-containing levels are at the highest chance of developing mesothelioma.
There are some risk factors that can be changed like the age of a person, or if they smoke, but the majority mesothelioma-related risk factors are related to asbestos exposure. Certain risk factors can't be changed, such as the family history of a person or genetics. A person's mesothelioma risk is also increased if they have certain illnesses or health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.
Treatment
Mesothelioma affects the mesothelium that forms the lungs and abdomen. People who are exposed to asbestos are at the risk of developing mesothelioma. The disease usually develops decades after asbestos exposure. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms often resemble other conditions. They can also come and go. Those diagnosed with mesothelioma can receive compensation via lawsuits or trust funds.
There is no cure for mesothelioma, however, there are treatments to treat the disease and improve the quality of your life. Patients should consult with doctors who are experienced in treating the disease. Doctors will review the patient's medical history to determine if there are any symptoms and possible mesothelioma risk factors for asbestos exposure.
The most common cause of Mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. It is usually caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that float in the air. These fibers can lodge in the lungs, leading to genetic mutations which can lead to cancer. Pleural mesothelioma affects the linings of the lung and is the most frequent mesothelioma type. It can also be found in the lining of the chest wall (pericardium) as well as the abdomen and testicles (peritoneal mesothelioma).
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by DNA changes in a cell. The mutations cause the cell to grow uncontrollably and result in an increase in the size of the tumor. Mesothelioma is found most often in men over the age of 75 and those who have served in the U.S. military.
There are different types of mesothelioma and each one has a different rate of survival. Patients must be aware that mesothelioma is very serious and can be very challenging to treat. There is hope, though 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.
The following is a list of preventions.
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, but is extremely preventable. Asbestos is a natural mineral that was previously used extensively in shipbuilding, construction and other industries due to its unique qualities of strength, durability, fire resistance and heat insulation. The microscopic asbestos fibers become airborne if disturbed and may cause serious health problems like mesothelioma, if inhaled.
Asbestos is the sole way to avoid mesothelioma. Asbestos exposure is the primary reason for mesothelioma and most people diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at one point throughout their lives. Other factors can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma, including smoking, age and genes.
Most often, mesothelioma affects the lungs (tummy) and lungs. Rarely does mesothelioma develop in other areas of the body. Mesothelioma can take several years to develop and may not be apparent until 20 or 40 years after exposure to asbestos. It is essential that those who have been exposed to asbestos regularly visit their physician if they are experiencing any unusual symptoms, especially breathlessness and coughing.
The signs of asbestosis are tightness in the chest, constant coughing and a bluish appearance to the skin due to the body is battling to get enough oxygen. The asbestos fibers that are inhaled can also cause irritation to lung tissues and cause scarring called fibrosis. This can cause an accumulation of fluid in the lungs as well as other parts of the body, like the heart. Inflammation can also cause genetic changes that could cause cancer to develop in the lung.
Asbestosis isn't curable, but there are treatments that can manage symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of breathing and quality of life for patients.
Mesothelioma is usually found in the lungs, but it can also affect the stomach, testicles, and the heart. There is no way to stop mesothelioma. However there are ways to reduce the risk. Ask your employer about safety standards and always be sure to check your workplace for asbestos. It is also an excellent idea to wear protective equipment and wash their work clothes outside of the home so that they are not tethered to clothing belonging to family members.