Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos DiseaseMesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, develops in the linings of internal organs. It is prevalent in the lungs and abdomen (peritoneum) however it can also occur in the pleura. The chance of developing the disease is higher when asbestos is exposed.Exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber resistant to heat and fire is the most significant risk factor. The symptoms may not manifest for decades after exposure.Signs and symptomsMesothelioma, a tumor that is cancerous that grows in the tissue of the lungs and the heart is caused by asbestos fibers. asbestos attorney lawyer mesothelioma is usually caused when asbestos fibers are inhaled and are absorbed into the organ lining. People who worked with asbestos, such as plumbers, miners, and carpenters, are the most at risk. It is also seen in people who lived with asbestos-related workers who brought it to their homes on their clothes or their skin. Other people at risk are those who work in homes where asbestos is present, or disturb asbestos during maintenance or renovations.There are four mesothelioma stages. People in the early and mid-stages do not have symptoms and may go for years before they are diagnosed. By the time cancer is discovered it is advanced and is difficult to treat.The symptoms of mesothelioma may not typically appear until decades after exposure. The disease can take a long time to develop because asbestos fibers must be transported from the lungs to other parts of the body before they can cause mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases begin in the lung lining (pleural mesothelioma) but it can be found in the lining of the stomach or the heart. It may also be found in the linings of the reproductive organs.A biopsy of the affected area is the most effective way to help a doctor diagnose mesothelioma. The specimen is examined under a microscope to determine if the cancer cells are of mesothelioma or another kind.Doctors may also order x-rays, CT scans or MRI to help identify the problem and see whether there is a tumor, thickening of the lining in the abdomen or chest, and fluid in the chest cavity. They may also recommend an examination of lung function to assess how well a person's lungs are functioning.A misdiagnosis of mesothelioma can be detrimental, since it could delay treatment, which could improve the chances of survival for a patient. This is why it is crucial to consult a physician whenever symptoms begin to manifest. A GP can assess the signs and symptoms and examine a person's history of exposure to asbestos.DiagnosisMesothelioma, a form of cancer, occurs in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a protective layer that covers many internal organs of the body, including the abdominal cavity and the chest cavity. The most frequent form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. It affects the lung's outer layer (pleura). Mesothelioma is less common in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum), the heart sac (pericardium), or in the testicles.A doctor can detect mesothelioma by taking tissue sample for imaging or biopsy tests. The doctor can determine the severity of mesothelioma, which is an indication of how invasive and likely it is to grow.The most significant mesothelioma risk factor is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral fiber that is resistant against fire and heat and was extensively employed in construction and manufacturing activities until the 1970s. Mesothelioma is more frequent in people who have worked in asbestos milling, mining pipes, insulators, and pipefitters.Inhaling the microscopic asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma. These fibers can be stuck in the lungs, leading to inflammation and scarring. Asbestos exposure may also increase the likelihood of smoking, which can further increase the risk for mesothelioma.The risk of mesothelioma increases when you are exposed to asbestos exposure. Those who have been exposed to the most asbestos-containing levels are at greatest risk for mesothelioma.There are some risk factors that can be changed for example, a person's age or whether they smoke, but most mesothelioma-related risk factors are a result of asbestos exposure. Some of these risk factors aren't changeable for example, the history of a family member or genetics. A person's mesothelioma risk is also increased if they have certain illnesses or health conditions like heart disease or diabetes.TreatmentMesothelioma, a form of cancer, affects mesothelium, which lines the lungs, abdomen and the heart. People who are exposed to asbestos are at the risk of developing mesothelioma. The disease typically develops decades after exposure. It is often difficult to diagnose, as symptoms often mimic other conditions and can change. Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may be compensated through lawsuits or trust funds.Mesothelioma has no cure however, treatment options are available to control the condition and improve quality of life. Patients should seek out doctors who are experienced in treating the disease. Doctors will examine the medical history of the patient to determine if there are any symptoms and other mesothelioma-related risk factors, like asbestos exposure.Exposure to asbestos is the most common cause mesothelioma. It is usually caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers that are floating in the air. These fibers can lodge in the lungs, leading to genetic mutations which can lead to cancer. The most common mesothelioma type is mesothelioma of the pleural region which affects the lung's lining. It can also affect the chest lining (pericardium) as well as the abdomen and testicles (peritoneal peritoneal cancer).Mesothelioma, as with all cancers, is caused by DNA mutations in cells. These mutations cause the cell to grow uncontrollably and result in the formation of a tumor. Mesothelioma is most commonly found in those over 75 and those who have been 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 an extremely serious condition and is a difficult one to treat. The research is progressing however, there is hope. Veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible for VA benefits.PreventionMesothelioma is a rare illness that is largely avoidable. Asbestos, a mineral that is naturally occurring was once extensively employed in shipbuilding, construction, and other industries because of its unique properties, which include durability, strength and insulation. However, the tiny asbestos fibers are able to become airborne if disturbed, and if inhaled, they could cause serious health issues such as mesothelioma.The only way to avoid mesothelioma is not to be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Most people who are diagnosed with the disease have been exposed at some time. Smoking and age as well as genetics can increase the risk of mesothelioma.The majority of mesothelioma cases affect the lungs (tummy) and the lungs. It is rare for mesothelioma develop in any other part of the body. Mesothelioma is a lengthy process to develop, and it could not be apparent for 20 or 40 years following exposure to asbestos. People who have been exposed to asbestos should consult their doctor regularly if they experience any unusual symptoms. This could include coughing or shortness of breathe.Symptoms of asbestosis include tightness in the chest, persistent coughing and a bluish appearance to the skin because the body is struggling to get enough oxygen. Inhaled fibers of asbestos can also cause irritation to lungs and cause scarring, known as fibrosis. This can lead to a build-up of fluid in the lungs and other parts of the body, including the heart. Inflammation can cause genetic changes, which can cause cancerous growth to the lungs.There is no cure for asbestosis, but there are treatments available to treat the symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of life and air quality for patients.Mesothelioma typically occurs in the tummy and lungs but can also affect the stomach, heart and testicles. It is usually not possible to prevent mesothelioma from occurring, however there are steps that individuals can take to lower their risk of exposure. Ask your employer about safety guidelines and make sure to examine the workplace for asbestos. Wearing protective equipment and washing the work clothes away from home is a good idea so that asbestos fibers are not brought home on the clothes of family members.