Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos Disease

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, develops in the linings of internal organs. It is most prevalent in the lungs and abdomen (peritoneum) however it can also occur in the pleura. Exposure to asbestos can result in an increased risk of developing this disease.

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

Symptoms

Mesothelioma, a cancerous tumor that grows in the tissue lining the lungs and heart is caused by asbestos fibers. It is usually caused when asbestos fibers are breathed in and deposited in the organ's lining. The most susceptible to contracting this condition are those who worked around asbestos, such as miners, plumbers carpenters, welders and carpenters. It can also occur in people who worked with asbestos workers who brought it home on their clothing or their skin. Others at risk are those who work in homes where asbestos is present, or who disturb asbestos when they are renovating or maintaining.

There are four mesothelioma stages. The early and mid-stages might not be symptom-free, and it could be years before they are diagnosed. By the time cancer is discovered it is progressed and is difficult to treat.

The symptoms of mesothelioma typically are not evident until years after exposure. The disease is slow to develop because asbestos fibers must be transported from the lungs into other body parts before they can cause mesothelioma. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the lung's lining (pleural mesothelioma) however it could also start in the stomach lining or heart. It can also show up in the lining of the reproductive organs.

A biopsy of the area affected is the most effective way to help a doctor diagnose mesothelioma. The biopsy is examined under a microscope to determine if the cells are mesothelioma or another type.

Doctors can also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to determine the cause and see whether there is an abnormality, a thickening of the lining in the chest or abdomen and fluid in the chest cavity. They can also request lung function tests to determine how well the lungs of a person are working.

A misdiagnosis of mesothelioma can be detrimental, since it can delay treatment, which could improve the prognosis of a patient. This is why it is essential to consult a doctor whenever you notice any signs. A GP is able to examine the symptoms and verify the history of exposure to asbestos for a patient.

Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is found in the mesothelium. The mesothelium covers a variety of internal organs in the body, including the chest cavity and abdominal cavity. The most commonly encountered form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma that affects the exterior layer of the lungs (pleura). Mesothelioma is rarer in the abdomen's lining (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. The doctor can determine the grade of mesothelioma. It is a measure of how aggressive and likely it will expand.

Exposure to asbestos legal is the biggest risk factor. Asbestos is a natural thermal, fire-resistant and heat-resistant fiber that was utilized in construction and manufacturing activities until the late 1970s. Mesothelioma is more common among those who been employed in asbestos claim milling, mining, insulators and pipefitters.

Inhaling asbestos fibers that are small can cause mesothelioma. These fibers can get trapped in the lungs, which can cause inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure may also increase a person's chances of smoking, which could increase the risk of mesothelioma.

The risk of mesothelioma for a person increases with the length of time they've been exposed to asbestos. People who have been exposed to the most asbestos-containing levels are at the highest 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, however the majority of the mesothelioma risk factors are related to asbestos exposure. Certain risk factors aren't changeable, such as the history of a family member or genetics. Mesothelioma is more likely be diagnosed if someone has certain health issues or illnesses like heart disease or diabetes.

Treatment

Mesothelioma is a condition that affects the mesothel forms the lungs and abdomen. Mesothelioma can be found in people who have been exposed to asbestos law. The disease typically develops over the years after asbestos exposure. It is often difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be similar to other conditions. They can also appear and disappear. Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may receive compensation via lawsuits or trust funds.

Mesothelioma has no cure, but treatments are available to manage the disease and improve quality of life. Patients should consult with doctors who are experts in treating the disease. Doctors will look over the patient's medical history to determine if there are any symptoms and mesothelioma-related risks, such as asbestos exposure.

Exposure to asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma. It is caused by inhaling tiny asbestos fibers floating in the air. The asbestos fibers can become lodged in the lungs, causing genetic mutations that could lead to cancer. Pleural mesothelioma can affect the linings of the lungs and is the common type of mesothelioma. However, it can be found in the linings of the chest wall (pericardium) as well as the abdomen and testicles (peritoneal mesothelioma).

Mesothelioma, as with all cancers, is caused by DNA changes in cells. These mutations cause the cell to expand uncontrollably, which results 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 mesothelioma types, and each one has a different rate of survival. Patients must be aware that a mesothelioma diagnose is grave and difficult to treat. There is hope, however, as research continues to make advancements in extending survival. In addition, veterans with mesothelioma must be aware that they may be eligible for benefits from the VA.

The following is a list of preventatives.

Mesothelioma is a rare illness that is largely treatable. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used widely in construction, shipbuilding and other industries due to its unique properties of durability, strength, heat insulation, and fire resistance. However, the tiny asbestos fibers are able to become airborne if disturbed, and if inhaled, could cause serious health issues such as mesothelioma.

The only way to avoid mesothelioma is to not be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is the primary reason for mesothelioma. The majority of people diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at some time or another. Other factors can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma, such as smoking, age and genes.

Mesothelioma most commonly affects the lungs and abdomen (tummy). It is extremely rare for mesothelioma development to occur in any other area of the body. Mesothelioma can take a long time to develop and may not show up until 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. People who have been exposed asbestos should visit their doctor regularly if they experience any unusual symptoms. This may include coughing, or breath shortness.

Symptoms of asbestosis include tightness in the chest, persistent coughing, and a blue appearance of the skin because the body is struggling to get enough oxygen. Inhaling asbestos fibers can also cause irritation to the lung tissue and cause scarring, called fibrosis. This could cause fluid to build up in the lungs, as well as other organs including the heart. Inflammation can also cause genetic changes that could cause cancer to develop in the lung.

Asbestosis is not curable, but there are treatments available to manage symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of life and the quality of breathing for patients.

Mesothelioma typically occurs in the tummy and lungs but it can also affect the stomach, heart and testicles. There is no way to prevent mesothelioma. However there are ways to decrease the risk. They should always look for asbestos in the workplace and talk to their employer about the safety standards that they should adhere to. Wearing protective gear and washing at home away from work clothes is a good idea so that asbestos fibers do not get brought home on the clothes of family members.