Question: Are certain individuals more likely to develop illness from exposure to asbestos?
Answer: Yes. There is an increased risk of developing asbestos-related illness if a person worked in an industry requiring constant, prolonged exposure. These individuals include many factory and construction workers, as well as ship builders, miners, automotive brake mechanics, and anyone else who worked with insulation materials.
There is no level of harmless exposure to asbestos. Even small doses can cause illness that becomes manifest many years later. Yet, some who worked around asbestos never develop illness. While some scientists believe that certain individuals are genetically more able to withstand exposure, no one has been able to identify an asbestos-resistant gene.
Question: Asbestos has not been widely used since the 1970's. How can there be any current risk of asbestos exposure?
Answer: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that over 700,000 public buildings in this country still contain asbestos. This number includes approximately one in ten existing school buildings. Thus, the threat posed by asbestos exposure continues to haunt innocent citizens.
Question: My exposure to asbestos happened years ago. Have I run out of time to make a claim?
Answer: This is an important question. In asbestos cases, the Statute of Limitations, or time limit for making a legal claim, depends on the state in which you live. Your time to make a claim certainly starts to run, once a doctor diagnoses you with an illness. For that reason, talk with a Michigan asbestos lawyer about your rights immediately.
Question: I do not have mesothelioma, but I have been diagnosed with another form of cancer, and I was exposed to asbestos. Could the cancer be related to asbestos exposure?
Answer: Just as asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, there are also studies that link asbestos exposure to increased risk of other cancers, including cancer of the colon, kidney, larynx, pancreas, and esophagus. If you believe asbestos played a role in your illness, you should consult a doctor and contact a Michigan asbestos lawyer today.
Question: I know that the company where I used to work has declared bankruptcy, supposedly due to asbestos litigation. Should I even bother to pursue a claim?
Answer: Many law firms are fighting to challenge bankruptcies that corporations try to use as a shield against financial exposure to asbestos claims. You should talk to a Michigan asbestos lawyer by submitting a free, confidential consultation form today to determine the status of claims against the particular company that you believe is responsible for your illness.
Question: What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?
Answer: Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the chest cavity and involves the lungs. It is the more common form of mesothelioma cancer. Its symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and perhaps rapid weight loss or persistent fever. Because these early problems may indicate other illnesses, a doctor may have difficulty making the initial diagnosis. If you are experiencing these symptoms and believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, you should notify your health care provider immediately.
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma progresses more rapidly and is more deadly. However, early diagnosis and an individual's response to treatment are important factors in combating the disease. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the lower extremities. Individual symptoms vary and may not all be present. If you are experiencing these problems and were exposed to asbestos in the past, you should see your family physician.
Question: Does mesothelioma always mean cancer?
Answer: In very rare circumstances, it is possible to have a benign (non-cancerous) form of mesothelioma, which is known as cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum. But in most instances, mesothelioma is a malignant disease.
Question: Just because I worked with asbestos, does that really mean that I am at higher risk of mesothelioma and other illnesses?
Answer: Unfortunately, a report in the New England Journal of Medicine indicated that asbestos workers were 344 times more likely to die from mesothelioma than the average population. Other studies also show a clear connection between asbestos exposure and serious illness.
If you or a loved one suffer from asbestos related cancer or mesothelioma cancer, talk with an experienced Michigan asbestos lawyer today.
Attorney Marya Sieminski joined the Law Offices of Sam Bernstein in 2003. She is admitted to practice law in Michigan state courts and in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated magna cum laude from Wayne State University Law School. Marya has worked as a trial lawyer for 10 years and exclusively represented victims in personal injury litigation and in workers compensation claims. She also was appointed by the Governor to serve on the State of Michigan Workers Compensation Qualifications Advisory Committee.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
This is How Deadly Malignant Mesothelioma Is
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer that has been found to be caused by asbestos. The disease affects the mesothelium walls and cause the cells to be cancerous. Around 2,000 cases are diagnosed every year in the United States. This disease can have a person stay over 30 years without it developing and showing symptoms. It is deadly just like any other form of cancer and it can be treated when it has not yet spread to all the major organs. Malignant mesothelioma is usually a heartbreaking diagnosis but, you need to know that you can file a legal claim against the company in which you think you got the asbestos exposure from. The disease manifests with various symptoms depending on the area affected. The abdomen mesothelioma is called peritoneal mesothelioma and it can be malignant.
You will experience discomfort with bowel blockage, pain, bloating, swelling and you can feel a mass in your abdomen, loss of appetite, swelling of other organs around the stomach and others. If your lungs and breathing system is affected, you will experience chest pains, shortness of breathe, coughing and weight loss. The symptoms can be different depending on the bodies of individuals. Immediately you notice such symptoms do not stay in your home and say that you have mesothelioma. You can only say it conclusively if the proper tests are done to determine the presence of the disease. The doctor will perform several tests and they include chest x rays, biopsy and others. If found that you have malignant mesothelioma, you do not have to panic because you can be cured.
However, the disease must be contained before spreading to other areas and sometimes when the condition is too bad, nothing can be done. This however does not mean that recovery is impossible, you have to maintain a positive attitude. For a cure, you have the option of surgery. It can totally heal your disease and it is sometimes accompanied by radiation and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells while radiation is the use of rays to also suppress the disease. You need to take time and look at the facts as offered to you by the doctor and make decisions that will facilitate your cure. If you find that your condition is not malignant then it is benign an this means that you do not have cancerous cells.
People who suffer from malignant mesothelioma are usually advised to participate in clinical trials of new drugs. They can provide a window to relief and healing. There are also many support groups they can find and form to share their experiences. Many people suffer alone and this is not necessary because being around people with the same experiences will enable you to open up and as a result, you will reduce the stress in your body improving your immunity and this will contribute to your getting better. Remember that you have the option to fight for your rights and a good mesothelioma lawyer will guide you through the process until you get victory and compensation.
You will experience discomfort with bowel blockage, pain, bloating, swelling and you can feel a mass in your abdomen, loss of appetite, swelling of other organs around the stomach and others. If your lungs and breathing system is affected, you will experience chest pains, shortness of breathe, coughing and weight loss. The symptoms can be different depending on the bodies of individuals. Immediately you notice such symptoms do not stay in your home and say that you have mesothelioma. You can only say it conclusively if the proper tests are done to determine the presence of the disease. The doctor will perform several tests and they include chest x rays, biopsy and others. If found that you have malignant mesothelioma, you do not have to panic because you can be cured.
However, the disease must be contained before spreading to other areas and sometimes when the condition is too bad, nothing can be done. This however does not mean that recovery is impossible, you have to maintain a positive attitude. For a cure, you have the option of surgery. It can totally heal your disease and it is sometimes accompanied by radiation and chemotherapy. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells while radiation is the use of rays to also suppress the disease. You need to take time and look at the facts as offered to you by the doctor and make decisions that will facilitate your cure. If you find that your condition is not malignant then it is benign an this means that you do not have cancerous cells.
People who suffer from malignant mesothelioma are usually advised to participate in clinical trials of new drugs. They can provide a window to relief and healing. There are also many support groups they can find and form to share their experiences. Many people suffer alone and this is not necessary because being around people with the same experiences will enable you to open up and as a result, you will reduce the stress in your body improving your immunity and this will contribute to your getting better. Remember that you have the option to fight for your rights and a good mesothelioma lawyer will guide you through the process until you get victory and compensation.
These Are Some of the Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma is a disease that affects the lining of the lungs and these linings are called lung pleura. This disease has been mistaken for lung cancer but, the two have no association because this disease affects the serous membrane. The serous membrane is found on several organs near the chest and abdomen and the most common place the disease affects is the lungs. In most cases, the disease is malignant and this means that it is a form of cancer. Like many other mesothelioma cases, it is caused by the exposure to asbestos. The most common way you can get the pleural mesothelioma is through inhalation. You can take in the asbestos fibers with the air and the body is not able to expel them out of your system and therefore, over a long period of time even up to 30 years, they cause the lining cells to change their form because of scarring and the disease forms.
The major symptom of pleural mesothelioma is heavy breathing because of the fluid which has built up and accumulated putting pressure on the lungs. Other symptoms that will contribute to the build up of the fluid are coughing persistently. You will sometimes cough blood, swallowing will become a major task for you, you will experience shortness of breath even when at a resting position, fatigue, weight loss, pain in the chest area and lumps which will be under the skin in your chest. When you start to see some of this symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical help because you might have a fair chance of recovery. Delaying usually worsens any case. If you suspect to have been exposed to asbestos, it will also be helpful to get checked out for the evidence of the disease and you stand a better chance of getting rid of possibilities of future development.
It is very difficult to test for pleural mesothelioma because the symptoms are so similar to other disease like pneumonia and influenza. The latency period or the time that it takes to develop is usually very long and the disease may have occurred without any symptoms. Apart from observing the symptoms, some tests will have to be undertaken to know exactly where the disease is and whether it has spread. The tests will also seek to find out what type of cancer it is. The test will include x rays, biopsies and others. There are several treatment options for pleural mesothelioma and other treatments have not yet been approved. The known treatments which can provide a cure are surgery. The tumor is surgically removed and other treatments are administered to prevent a re-occurrence.
Chemotherapy is a term that refers to the drugs used to treat cancer. These drugs are designed to target and kill the cells that are dividing but, it is not specific on the cancer cells so, healthy and good cells are also destroyed and this is the reason patients loose hair and become weak. The hair cells and immunity cells are being destroyed along with the cancerous cells. Therefore the side effects for this treatment are hair loss, nausea and lack of appetite. You will also be prone to infections because of a low immunity.
The major symptom of pleural mesothelioma is heavy breathing because of the fluid which has built up and accumulated putting pressure on the lungs. Other symptoms that will contribute to the build up of the fluid are coughing persistently. You will sometimes cough blood, swallowing will become a major task for you, you will experience shortness of breath even when at a resting position, fatigue, weight loss, pain in the chest area and lumps which will be under the skin in your chest. When you start to see some of this symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical help because you might have a fair chance of recovery. Delaying usually worsens any case. If you suspect to have been exposed to asbestos, it will also be helpful to get checked out for the evidence of the disease and you stand a better chance of getting rid of possibilities of future development.
It is very difficult to test for pleural mesothelioma because the symptoms are so similar to other disease like pneumonia and influenza. The latency period or the time that it takes to develop is usually very long and the disease may have occurred without any symptoms. Apart from observing the symptoms, some tests will have to be undertaken to know exactly where the disease is and whether it has spread. The tests will also seek to find out what type of cancer it is. The test will include x rays, biopsies and others. There are several treatment options for pleural mesothelioma and other treatments have not yet been approved. The known treatments which can provide a cure are surgery. The tumor is surgically removed and other treatments are administered to prevent a re-occurrence.
Chemotherapy is a term that refers to the drugs used to treat cancer. These drugs are designed to target and kill the cells that are dividing but, it is not specific on the cancer cells so, healthy and good cells are also destroyed and this is the reason patients loose hair and become weak. The hair cells and immunity cells are being destroyed along with the cancerous cells. Therefore the side effects for this treatment are hair loss, nausea and lack of appetite. You will also be prone to infections because of a low immunity.
Why Mesothelioma Lawyers Should Be Credible and Trustworthy
Mesothelioma lawyers are everywhere and they produce some of the most entertaining and creative advertisements to market themselves. You can therefore be easily fooled by taking their word for it. You need to take time and choose a lawyer who will work for you in a dedicated way so that you may secure the win. Firstly, mesothelioma is a kind of cancer that is caused by a certain carcinogen called asbestos. It causes the lining of the heart, lungs and abdomen to be disabled by the production of abnormal or cancerous cells. People who work in the industry of mining asbestos are usually at a risk as well as those who work in other industries that use this substance to produce products. It can produce over 3,000 products and it is therefore very useful but, deadly.
Companies which have full knowledge that the substance is harmful and go ahead not to warn workers, usually pay millions of dollars to settle the claims from patients or plaintiffs. Mesothelioma lawyers facilitate this process and this is the reason why you need a good layer. You may be faced with a lot when you receive the diagnosis and some of the issues are financial. The fact that you need treatment and at the same time you need a lawyer, will definitely be a source of stress for you. Depending on the laws of your state, you need to know that the more time you take, the more you might miss out on a chance to sue. Let mesothelioma lawyers explain this to you.
The mesothelioma lawyers should be credible and trustworthy. They should be qualified with enough proof of previous successes. This will help your case so much. The lawyers must be willing to guide you carefully through the process to show you what is expected and the chances you have of winning. It is therefore necessary to have a lawyer who will not be from another state or who lives too far away from your location. You must never assume on the terms of payment. Many cases, in fact in majority of cases there is a contingency agreement and the mesothelioma lawyers will only be paid once the process is completed. This is a very convenient way for the clients and they are able to go through the process with minimal expenses.
Do a thorough research on cases that have been passed before and see what exactly you need to prepare yourself for. If possible, talk to people who have won the lawsuits and their experiences will be invaluable to your case. With the proper guidance from your lawyer, you will be able to go through the process with ease. Some cases take months and others years and you need to engage in patience. If everything goes as planned, you will win the lawsuit and receive a compensation. Your lawyer will have to be paid on the agreed terms and you will be satisfied you got your justice. Nothing can really compensate for a deadly disease but, you will be able to pay for your treatment and recover well.
Companies which have full knowledge that the substance is harmful and go ahead not to warn workers, usually pay millions of dollars to settle the claims from patients or plaintiffs. Mesothelioma lawyers facilitate this process and this is the reason why you need a good layer. You may be faced with a lot when you receive the diagnosis and some of the issues are financial. The fact that you need treatment and at the same time you need a lawyer, will definitely be a source of stress for you. Depending on the laws of your state, you need to know that the more time you take, the more you might miss out on a chance to sue. Let mesothelioma lawyers explain this to you.
The mesothelioma lawyers should be credible and trustworthy. They should be qualified with enough proof of previous successes. This will help your case so much. The lawyers must be willing to guide you carefully through the process to show you what is expected and the chances you have of winning. It is therefore necessary to have a lawyer who will not be from another state or who lives too far away from your location. You must never assume on the terms of payment. Many cases, in fact in majority of cases there is a contingency agreement and the mesothelioma lawyers will only be paid once the process is completed. This is a very convenient way for the clients and they are able to go through the process with minimal expenses.
Do a thorough research on cases that have been passed before and see what exactly you need to prepare yourself for. If possible, talk to people who have won the lawsuits and their experiences will be invaluable to your case. With the proper guidance from your lawyer, you will be able to go through the process with ease. Some cases take months and others years and you need to engage in patience. If everything goes as planned, you will win the lawsuit and receive a compensation. Your lawyer will have to be paid on the agreed terms and you will be satisfied you got your justice. Nothing can really compensate for a deadly disease but, you will be able to pay for your treatment and recover well.
Friday, August 29, 2008
How to Identify a Good Mesothelioma Attorney
When you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and you have previously been exposed to asbestos, you are eligible to file a lawsuit claim that will seek compensation. If you have no idea what mesothelioma is, then you will be sad to hear that it is a deadly disease which is caused by a natural mineral used in industries called asbestos. It affects the protective covering of the heart, lungs and abdomen. Manufacturing companies that deal with the substance are in the cement industry, shipyards and so many others. Mesothelioma attorneys come in handy when you need to be represented and represented well. There are several things that you need to consider when looking for a good mesothelioma attorney and they include the following.
They should be legal and registered by the government with a valid license to practice. They should also come with a wealth of experience. You need to put your case in the hands of an attorney who has dealt with other cases and won. Some evidence to back it up will be necessary because some lawyers survive on exaggeration and falsehood. The internet is full of mesothelioma attorneys advertising themselves to potential clients. They certainly benefit from the afflictions of patients and to them it is business as usual. You need to know that you stand a chance in winning the case. A mesothelioma attorney will be paid when the case is over and the common pay is 40% of the compensation. You therefore need to agree with your lawyer on the terms and mode of payment before you start the case.
There are lawyers who advertise themselves all over the country and they wish to get clients from all over. This may prove expensive and hectic for you and when you are finding a good mesothelioma attorney, they need to be from near or within your state. The case will be easier when planning for meetings and court appearances. The lawyer should give you the information on the case, in the most simple and convincing way, they should be seen to have knowledge and understanding of what they are saying. You should therefore undertake a search to find out more of their background and come up with information that will help determine their competence.
A good mesothelioma attorney should be positive and should not impose things on you. They need to offer advise and you must have the freedom to refuse it or take it. This is because they might also be wrong and for the purpose of keeping a balance of opinions, you must decide on certain things pertaining to the case. When you are satisfied with your layer, you can then concentrate on the case. It may take a very long time including years to be concluded and you must be prepared to fight through to the end. There is no doubt that after you have won the case, you will look back and appreciate taking the time to find a good lawyer.
They should be legal and registered by the government with a valid license to practice. They should also come with a wealth of experience. You need to put your case in the hands of an attorney who has dealt with other cases and won. Some evidence to back it up will be necessary because some lawyers survive on exaggeration and falsehood. The internet is full of mesothelioma attorneys advertising themselves to potential clients. They certainly benefit from the afflictions of patients and to them it is business as usual. You need to know that you stand a chance in winning the case. A mesothelioma attorney will be paid when the case is over and the common pay is 40% of the compensation. You therefore need to agree with your lawyer on the terms and mode of payment before you start the case.
There are lawyers who advertise themselves all over the country and they wish to get clients from all over. This may prove expensive and hectic for you and when you are finding a good mesothelioma attorney, they need to be from near or within your state. The case will be easier when planning for meetings and court appearances. The lawyer should give you the information on the case, in the most simple and convincing way, they should be seen to have knowledge and understanding of what they are saying. You should therefore undertake a search to find out more of their background and come up with information that will help determine their competence.
A good mesothelioma attorney should be positive and should not impose things on you. They need to offer advise and you must have the freedom to refuse it or take it. This is because they might also be wrong and for the purpose of keeping a balance of opinions, you must decide on certain things pertaining to the case. When you are satisfied with your layer, you can then concentrate on the case. It may take a very long time including years to be concluded and you must be prepared to fight through to the end. There is no doubt that after you have won the case, you will look back and appreciate taking the time to find a good lawyer.
A Look at Some Treatment Options For Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma cancer is malignant mesothelioma and this means that cells found in the lining of various organs like heart, lungs and abdomen, grow abnormally retaining fluid. This disease has been around for a long time and it was first discovered in 1887 and then ignored. It was until 1970s that companies and governments started to recognize that it is a serious disease. This is mainly because it is caused by a mineral that can manufacture up to 3,000 products. The mineral occurs naturally on the earth and it is usually mined and is commonly called asbestos. This is a unique substance for apart from causing a deadly disease, it defies fire and cannot be burnt. Mesothelioma cancer affects the lining referred to as the mesothelium and exposure to asbestos could have happened during childhood. It takes over 30 years for the symptoms to start showing.
The disease has not been very common although the number of new cases has increased by a little percentage. Men will suffer from the disease more often than women and people of all ages can be affected. The people who are at a higher risk of getting the disease work closely with asbestos and they include shipyard workers, asbestos mine workers and so many other workers. They can expose their families with their cloths. Safety measures have now be put in place to protect industry workers and protective cloths and equipment have been introduced. Workers can also take a shower and change cloths before they leave their work premises. Symptoms of mesothelioma cancer differ with the particular organ the disease affects. Some of the most common symptoms include the following.
You will experience swelling of various organs, pain, weight loss, bowel obstruction, blood clotting, anemia and so many other symptoms. When you suspect you have the illness, do not conclude that it is mesothelioma cancer you have to go through a series of tests first before you conclude whether your illness is malignant or cancerous. You will have x rays performed and even a biopsy and when the doctor finds conclusive evidence of the disease, this is not the end. The symptoms of mesothelioma cancer are so similar to other diseases and it is therefore very difficult to diagnose the disease. You have very many treatment options and they can manage your condition depending on how bad it is. If the doctor recommends a certain treatment, like surgery, you can consult and make sure that it is the best decision for you available. Radiation and chemotherapy options are also available.
There are other treatment options that have not been concluded and you will find so many resources on this topic. Getting the right knowledge is vital to help you know what to expect if you are affected by the problem. You will be in a position to help others when the opportunity arises. Patients can sue for compensation if they feel that they need justice to be done. Good mesothelioma lawyers are available and it is upon you to find a lawyer who can represent you to win the case.
The disease has not been very common although the number of new cases has increased by a little percentage. Men will suffer from the disease more often than women and people of all ages can be affected. The people who are at a higher risk of getting the disease work closely with asbestos and they include shipyard workers, asbestos mine workers and so many other workers. They can expose their families with their cloths. Safety measures have now be put in place to protect industry workers and protective cloths and equipment have been introduced. Workers can also take a shower and change cloths before they leave their work premises. Symptoms of mesothelioma cancer differ with the particular organ the disease affects. Some of the most common symptoms include the following.
You will experience swelling of various organs, pain, weight loss, bowel obstruction, blood clotting, anemia and so many other symptoms. When you suspect you have the illness, do not conclude that it is mesothelioma cancer you have to go through a series of tests first before you conclude whether your illness is malignant or cancerous. You will have x rays performed and even a biopsy and when the doctor finds conclusive evidence of the disease, this is not the end. The symptoms of mesothelioma cancer are so similar to other diseases and it is therefore very difficult to diagnose the disease. You have very many treatment options and they can manage your condition depending on how bad it is. If the doctor recommends a certain treatment, like surgery, you can consult and make sure that it is the best decision for you available. Radiation and chemotherapy options are also available.
There are other treatment options that have not been concluded and you will find so many resources on this topic. Getting the right knowledge is vital to help you know what to expect if you are affected by the problem. You will be in a position to help others when the opportunity arises. Patients can sue for compensation if they feel that they need justice to be done. Good mesothelioma lawyers are available and it is upon you to find a lawyer who can represent you to win the case.
How to Choose a Good Mesothelioma Lawyer
A good mesothelioma lawyer should have all the good qualities which include competence and knowledge. They should be able to give you a history of the disease as well as the strides that have been made in new cases that pertain to mesothelioma. Firstly, mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the protective lining of the abdomen, lungs and heart and it is caused by a natural occurring mineral called asbestos. Asbestos has been called the miracle mineral because it is one of the few substances resistant to fire. Therefore asbestos is a carcinogen or a substance that can cause cancer. The disease can manifest itself 30 to 50 years after exposure. If you are a patient of mesothelioma, you can file a case against the company you were working for. This is usually because the company needs to warn its workers of possible danger and failure to do this usually costs them when they are sued.
A good mesothelioma lawyer should have experience and should have won several cases. This is a case that will change your whole life, you therefore need to invest as much time as you can to make sure you have a good conclusion to the case. They should portray interest and dedication to the case and be ready to give it their best. Giving you brief history of what to expect goes a long way and, you will be more informed on the case from the beginning thanks to mesothelioma lawyer. Some middlemen have managed to disguise themselves as lawyers while all they want is a share of your reward when you win the case.
Therefore, knowing the qualifications of a lawyer can only help you determine whether they are suitable for your case. On the internet, there are so many options of mesothelioma lawyers and many are seeking just to benefit. Your main concern is that you win the case in the most professional manner possible. There are people who engage in a debate of judging the opportunistic 'professionals' and this may not be helpful in any case. One of the best thing that can shed so much light to your case is the experiences of other patients and their attorneys. Make it a priority to have this information so that you can avoid many pitfalls that they may have gotten into.
Choosing a good mesothelioma layer will take searching and dedication to seek the best. Find a layer from your locality to make the whole process convenient. Some lawyers on the internet advertise themselves purporting to be at a location they are not in. Make sure you see the lawyers office when you communicate with them. Know every aspect of the law beforehand in regard to mesothelioma. This will help save so much time and your lawyer can move forward and plan for the case. Finally, know how exactly you are going to settle the lawyers fee. Go for a contingency plan and this is where you pay them with you winnings in court. This is definitely convenient and many law firms have engaged in this and the major reason is to attract as many clients as possible. If you win the case, the lawyer gets a substantial amount of money.
A good mesothelioma lawyer should have experience and should have won several cases. This is a case that will change your whole life, you therefore need to invest as much time as you can to make sure you have a good conclusion to the case. They should portray interest and dedication to the case and be ready to give it their best. Giving you brief history of what to expect goes a long way and, you will be more informed on the case from the beginning thanks to mesothelioma lawyer. Some middlemen have managed to disguise themselves as lawyers while all they want is a share of your reward when you win the case.
Therefore, knowing the qualifications of a lawyer can only help you determine whether they are suitable for your case. On the internet, there are so many options of mesothelioma lawyers and many are seeking just to benefit. Your main concern is that you win the case in the most professional manner possible. There are people who engage in a debate of judging the opportunistic 'professionals' and this may not be helpful in any case. One of the best thing that can shed so much light to your case is the experiences of other patients and their attorneys. Make it a priority to have this information so that you can avoid many pitfalls that they may have gotten into.
Choosing a good mesothelioma layer will take searching and dedication to seek the best. Find a layer from your locality to make the whole process convenient. Some lawyers on the internet advertise themselves purporting to be at a location they are not in. Make sure you see the lawyers office when you communicate with them. Know every aspect of the law beforehand in regard to mesothelioma. This will help save so much time and your lawyer can move forward and plan for the case. Finally, know how exactly you are going to settle the lawyers fee. Go for a contingency plan and this is where you pay them with you winnings in court. This is definitely convenient and many law firms have engaged in this and the major reason is to attract as many clients as possible. If you win the case, the lawyer gets a substantial amount of money.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Some of the Risk Factors Associated With Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer the affects the mesothelium which is a protective cover for many internal organs including the intestines, heart, lungs and others. The disease is associated with asbestos and majority of all cases have come into contact with the substance either through contact or inhaling it. When a factory worker handles asbestos, he risks exposing it to his family and therefore it becomes a very serious issue when so many people have to suffer. This is one of the cancer that affects the lungs and is not associated with smoking. Generally, the disease is quite rare and in the United States, only 2,000 cases are diagnosed annually and the disease is more common in men than in women. It has been found that you can be exposed to asbestos and 30 or 50 years later, will be when you start experiencing the symptoms of the disease.
Therefore, the major risk factor to getting mesothelioma is working near asbestos. If you have no idea what asbestos is, then you need to know that it is a name given to a group of minerals and they occur naturally. Their strong fibers can be woven because they are very flexible. They are used in industries to produce various products like roof shingles, brake linings, cement, flooring products, textiles and insulation. Many workers in this industry can inhale the fibers and some may be trapped in their cloths. When the disease had not been discovered, many people used to suffer and they all seemed to work in the asbestos mining industry. When the cause was established, safety measures were put in place and workers in the U.S wear personal protective equipment and are only exposed to acceptable amounts of asbestos.
Workers also take other safety measures like showering and changing cloths before they leave their work areas. This enables them to reduce the risk of exposing the asbestos to their families. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary from the specific organs they affect and in the chest, you will experience shortness of breathe and intense pain. In the abdomen, you will have bowel obstruction, blood clotting, anemia, lack of appetite and weight loss. There will be a host of other symptoms like swelling of the face and trouble while swallowing. You are advised not to hesitate but, to see a specialist who will make recommendations for treatment if you are suffering from a form of mesothelioma.
Once you visit the doctor, he will do a test for mesothelioma and it is one of the most difficult tests to do. Very many diseases have similar symptoms and this is the reason why it is so hard to diagnose. Your history will provide the major clue as to whether, you have had asbestos exposure. A series of x rays will be performed as well as a host of other examinations. A biopsy will determine whether the cells are noncancerous in your body and if they are cancerous, you will be advised on the way forward. There are many treatment options available and you can recover completely from this disease. The options are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and others which have not been approved.
Therefore, the major risk factor to getting mesothelioma is working near asbestos. If you have no idea what asbestos is, then you need to know that it is a name given to a group of minerals and they occur naturally. Their strong fibers can be woven because they are very flexible. They are used in industries to produce various products like roof shingles, brake linings, cement, flooring products, textiles and insulation. Many workers in this industry can inhale the fibers and some may be trapped in their cloths. When the disease had not been discovered, many people used to suffer and they all seemed to work in the asbestos mining industry. When the cause was established, safety measures were put in place and workers in the U.S wear personal protective equipment and are only exposed to acceptable amounts of asbestos.
Workers also take other safety measures like showering and changing cloths before they leave their work areas. This enables them to reduce the risk of exposing the asbestos to their families. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary from the specific organs they affect and in the chest, you will experience shortness of breathe and intense pain. In the abdomen, you will have bowel obstruction, blood clotting, anemia, lack of appetite and weight loss. There will be a host of other symptoms like swelling of the face and trouble while swallowing. You are advised not to hesitate but, to see a specialist who will make recommendations for treatment if you are suffering from a form of mesothelioma.
Once you visit the doctor, he will do a test for mesothelioma and it is one of the most difficult tests to do. Very many diseases have similar symptoms and this is the reason why it is so hard to diagnose. Your history will provide the major clue as to whether, you have had asbestos exposure. A series of x rays will be performed as well as a host of other examinations. A biopsy will determine whether the cells are noncancerous in your body and if they are cancerous, you will be advised on the way forward. There are many treatment options available and you can recover completely from this disease. The options are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and others which have not been approved.
How to Get the Guidance of Good Mesothelioma Attorneys
When you are a mesothelioma patient, you may have the law to give you the justice that you deserve. If your condition was caused by neglect, then you might have a case against your employer or the person responsible. To make it through the process, you need the guidance of a good lawyer and mesothelioma attorneys are so many. Their number has been perpetuated by the lucrative cases which fetch so much money that see them get 40% of the total reward. All winnings can be over a million dollars and this is why you need to choose mesothelioma attorneys who are thinking about more than money. There are several tips that will be helpful and it is upon you to read and understand. Then, take the necessary caution, and you will have what you need.
Firstly, you need to know what your rights are and if you have been affected by asbestos, you have the right to a compensation. The major reason for this is because the companies which use asbestos to manufacture products have the knowledge that the substance is harmful and the fact that they kept this information to themselves, gives them a case to answer. Most companies kept this information to maintain their profits and to avoid legal tussles with the workers. Mesothelioma attorneys should therefore have a deeper knowledge and understanding of all that pertains to mesothelioma cases. You should therefore go the extra mile to find out how many cases they have managed to take to trial and how many they have worn. They should back this with evidence so that you avoid lip service. This will go a long way in helping your case stand a better chance of winning.
The other thing you need to know while finding the right mesothelioma attorneys, is whether they intend to refer your case to another law firm or they intend to handle it themselves. You need to deal directly with the mesothelioma attorneys who must not act as middlemen. Other middlemen are not attorneys themselves and you need to be especially careful to find one who will be best for you. You need to consider your location. You do not have to go around the country to find mesothelioma attorneys because the distance might not work for your good. A thorough search through the internet will reveal that in your locality, you have several suitable lawyers.
Trials are very hard to conduct and preparing for them will require several expenses. You therefore need to consider how you will settle all the payments including the attorney's fee. Most situations work on contingency basis where the attorney fees are settled when the case is concluded and won. If the case is not a victory, then the lawyer loses too. The other vital thing you should know about your attorney is whether they are capable of communicating well. They need to give you a summary of what they plan to do to make sure they win the case. Some lawyers are not convincing at all and, it is upon you to judge who is more likely to deliver the facts of the case the best way you see fit.
Firstly, you need to know what your rights are and if you have been affected by asbestos, you have the right to a compensation. The major reason for this is because the companies which use asbestos to manufacture products have the knowledge that the substance is harmful and the fact that they kept this information to themselves, gives them a case to answer. Most companies kept this information to maintain their profits and to avoid legal tussles with the workers. Mesothelioma attorneys should therefore have a deeper knowledge and understanding of all that pertains to mesothelioma cases. You should therefore go the extra mile to find out how many cases they have managed to take to trial and how many they have worn. They should back this with evidence so that you avoid lip service. This will go a long way in helping your case stand a better chance of winning.
The other thing you need to know while finding the right mesothelioma attorneys, is whether they intend to refer your case to another law firm or they intend to handle it themselves. You need to deal directly with the mesothelioma attorneys who must not act as middlemen. Other middlemen are not attorneys themselves and you need to be especially careful to find one who will be best for you. You need to consider your location. You do not have to go around the country to find mesothelioma attorneys because the distance might not work for your good. A thorough search through the internet will reveal that in your locality, you have several suitable lawyers.
Trials are very hard to conduct and preparing for them will require several expenses. You therefore need to consider how you will settle all the payments including the attorney's fee. Most situations work on contingency basis where the attorney fees are settled when the case is concluded and won. If the case is not a victory, then the lawyer loses too. The other vital thing you should know about your attorney is whether they are capable of communicating well. They need to give you a summary of what they plan to do to make sure they win the case. Some lawyers are not convincing at all and, it is upon you to judge who is more likely to deliver the facts of the case the best way you see fit.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Mesothelioma Treatment Using Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is a form of radiotherapy and is an advanced form of treatment for mesothelioma. It has been used for over a century for the treatment of mesothelioma.
Radiotherapy is used to treat mesothelioma by ionizing radiation, thus killing cancer cells. Radiotherapy can be performed internally or externally. When radiotherapy is performed externally the radiation is put into the body from an object outside the body, which is usually called a linear accelerator.
When radiotherapy is performed internally radiation is put inside the body. Internal radiotherapy can also be called brachytherapy. "Brachy" comes from the Greek word for "short range." The radiation is put into the body at short range, thus, brachytherapy. Some other names for internal radiotherapy are sealed source radiotherapy, seed implantation radiotherapy or endocurietherapy.
The radiation is placed either inside the cancer source or very close to it. The radiation that is placed inside emits radiation killing the cancerous cells but can only kill up to a one inch diameter, so the radiation must be placed close to the cancerous site.
There are two different types of brachytherapy:
- temporary brachytherapy
- permanent brachytherapy
Temporary brachytherapy consists of placing the radioactive seeds (radiation) inside the body and then taking them out after a certain amount of time.
Permanent brachytherapy consists of placing the radioactive seeds inside the body and leaving them. The radioactive seeds actually stop emitting radiation after a certain amount of time but lay in the body causing no problems.
There are actually teams of people who administer the brachytherapy. Among this team are a radiation oncologist, a radiation physicist, a radiation therapist, and the person who manually does the procedure.
The radiation oncologist decides the area to be treated and the overall treatment plan, the radiation physicist decides the best equipment to be used to infuse the radiation, the dosimetrist decides the dosage to be given and helps in distributing the dose and the radiation therapist operates the equipment that administers the radiation.
Brachytherapy is considered to be a safer method of treatment for mesothelioma than other treatments for the cancer, but there are side effects of this procedure. Right after the procedure there is soreness at the site of the radiation there may also be swelling in the same area. Short-term side effects are soreness and bleeding at the site but generally only last a few days.
Radiotherapy is used to treat mesothelioma by ionizing radiation, thus killing cancer cells. Radiotherapy can be performed internally or externally. When radiotherapy is performed externally the radiation is put into the body from an object outside the body, which is usually called a linear accelerator.
When radiotherapy is performed internally radiation is put inside the body. Internal radiotherapy can also be called brachytherapy. "Brachy" comes from the Greek word for "short range." The radiation is put into the body at short range, thus, brachytherapy. Some other names for internal radiotherapy are sealed source radiotherapy, seed implantation radiotherapy or endocurietherapy.
The radiation is placed either inside the cancer source or very close to it. The radiation that is placed inside emits radiation killing the cancerous cells but can only kill up to a one inch diameter, so the radiation must be placed close to the cancerous site.
There are two different types of brachytherapy:
- temporary brachytherapy
- permanent brachytherapy
Temporary brachytherapy consists of placing the radioactive seeds (radiation) inside the body and then taking them out after a certain amount of time.
Permanent brachytherapy consists of placing the radioactive seeds inside the body and leaving them. The radioactive seeds actually stop emitting radiation after a certain amount of time but lay in the body causing no problems.
There are actually teams of people who administer the brachytherapy. Among this team are a radiation oncologist, a radiation physicist, a radiation therapist, and the person who manually does the procedure.
The radiation oncologist decides the area to be treated and the overall treatment plan, the radiation physicist decides the best equipment to be used to infuse the radiation, the dosimetrist decides the dosage to be given and helps in distributing the dose and the radiation therapist operates the equipment that administers the radiation.
Brachytherapy is considered to be a safer method of treatment for mesothelioma than other treatments for the cancer, but there are side effects of this procedure. Right after the procedure there is soreness at the site of the radiation there may also be swelling in the same area. Short-term side effects are soreness and bleeding at the site but generally only last a few days.
Mesothelioma Effects on the Body Cavity
The mesothelium is a membrane that covers the abdominal cavity, the chest cavity, and the heart. It is made up of cells that also cover just about all of the human internal organs.
It also produces fluids that are vital for the organs to function properly. For example, the mesothelium provides the lungs the fluid they need to properly expand for breathing. Along with providing the fluid for the lungs to expand and contract, the mesothelium also will provide the fluid for the intestines to move freely for proper digestion and the heart will move freely to contract.
The mesothelium that covers the lungs is called the pleura, the mesothelium around the heart is called the pericardium, and the mesothelium that covers the abdomen is the peritoneum. Each of these vital organs must have the vital fluids that are provided by it to function.
Mesothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is made up of two layers and this cancer starts in the middle of these two layers. When mesothelioma is diagnosed it greatly affects the proper functions of the mesothelium. The body cavities will slowly stop functioning. When mesothelioma occurs the cells of the mesothelium start dividing.
When the cells start dividing, they divide uncontrollably and abnormally. This cell division can damage other organs that are near by. And without treatment it can spread fast and go to the main organs in your body.
Symptoms occur when tumors start to get larger and fluid starts to fill up the mesothelium walls. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that greatly endangers the human body cavity. Mesothelioma is a fairly new discovery and research is being done daily to get more treatment options for this cancer. It is hard to diagnose this vicious cancer because it is so uncommon and many of the symptoms can be read as the same as many other illnesses.
It also produces fluids that are vital for the organs to function properly. For example, the mesothelium provides the lungs the fluid they need to properly expand for breathing. Along with providing the fluid for the lungs to expand and contract, the mesothelium also will provide the fluid for the intestines to move freely for proper digestion and the heart will move freely to contract.
The mesothelium that covers the lungs is called the pleura, the mesothelium around the heart is called the pericardium, and the mesothelium that covers the abdomen is the peritoneum. Each of these vital organs must have the vital fluids that are provided by it to function.
Mesothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is made up of two layers and this cancer starts in the middle of these two layers. When mesothelioma is diagnosed it greatly affects the proper functions of the mesothelium. The body cavities will slowly stop functioning. When mesothelioma occurs the cells of the mesothelium start dividing.
When the cells start dividing, they divide uncontrollably and abnormally. This cell division can damage other organs that are near by. And without treatment it can spread fast and go to the main organs in your body.
Symptoms occur when tumors start to get larger and fluid starts to fill up the mesothelium walls. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that greatly endangers the human body cavity. Mesothelioma is a fairly new discovery and research is being done daily to get more treatment options for this cancer. It is hard to diagnose this vicious cancer because it is so uncommon and many of the symptoms can be read as the same as many other illnesses.
New Treatments For Mesothelioma Cancer
More new treatments for mesothelioma are being tested and tried daily. Scientists also try the conventional methods of treatment like radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery in combination to try to come up with the fastest and most accurate treatment for mesothelioma. Below are a few of the new treatments that are being tried at this point.
Immunotherapy is one new treatment being tested at this time. Immunotherapy uses the patients own immune system to fight the mesothelioma. Immunotherapy consists of using substances found in the immune system to counteract the growth of the tumor.
Some substances that have been used in laboratory studies are interferon and interleukin-2. These substances have been found effective in laboratory studies but in those with malignant mesothelioma and there clinical trials the immunotherapy has not been effective.
Another new mesothelioma treatment is called heat therapy. Heat therapy works in the way that it heats the chemotherapy agents before they are injected. When these chemicals are heated before injection it seems to kill more of the tumor cells. This new mesothelioma treatment is also known as chemo hyperthermia and has shown good results in those with malignant mesothelioma.
Gene therapy is a new mesothelioma treatment that some believe to be a big key in future studies of mesothelioma. Gene therapy involves manipulating the genes involved in the tumor into a virus, such as the common cold, and then using antiviral drugs or your own immune system to destroy the cells.
Studies are still being conducted on this therapy. So far, this treatment has been effective for early stages of malignant mesothelioma and other types of tumors.
Another type of new mesothelioma treatment being tested in various studies is called Photodynamic Therapy. Photodynamic Therapy consists of injecting light sensitive molecules in the pleural space before surgery. When the surgery is done light is put directly on the molecules, thus killing the tumor cells. This study has not shown improved survival but studies are still being done to try this treatment.
Other new studies are done daily and many patients try clinical trials. Clinical trials are research studies that are done to collect information for new drugs or devices. Clinical trials can be the best treatment in some instances. Clinical trials are different tests done by physicians who have advanced knowledge. A Clinical trial could very easily prove to be the cure to mesothelioma in the future.
Immunotherapy is one new treatment being tested at this time. Immunotherapy uses the patients own immune system to fight the mesothelioma. Immunotherapy consists of using substances found in the immune system to counteract the growth of the tumor.
Some substances that have been used in laboratory studies are interferon and interleukin-2. These substances have been found effective in laboratory studies but in those with malignant mesothelioma and there clinical trials the immunotherapy has not been effective.
Another new mesothelioma treatment is called heat therapy. Heat therapy works in the way that it heats the chemotherapy agents before they are injected. When these chemicals are heated before injection it seems to kill more of the tumor cells. This new mesothelioma treatment is also known as chemo hyperthermia and has shown good results in those with malignant mesothelioma.
Gene therapy is a new mesothelioma treatment that some believe to be a big key in future studies of mesothelioma. Gene therapy involves manipulating the genes involved in the tumor into a virus, such as the common cold, and then using antiviral drugs or your own immune system to destroy the cells.
Studies are still being conducted on this therapy. So far, this treatment has been effective for early stages of malignant mesothelioma and other types of tumors.
Another type of new mesothelioma treatment being tested in various studies is called Photodynamic Therapy. Photodynamic Therapy consists of injecting light sensitive molecules in the pleural space before surgery. When the surgery is done light is put directly on the molecules, thus killing the tumor cells. This study has not shown improved survival but studies are still being done to try this treatment.
Other new studies are done daily and many patients try clinical trials. Clinical trials are research studies that are done to collect information for new drugs or devices. Clinical trials can be the best treatment in some instances. Clinical trials are different tests done by physicians who have advanced knowledge. A Clinical trial could very easily prove to be the cure to mesothelioma in the future.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Pleural Mesothelioma - Facts, Diagnosis and Causes of Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural Mesothelioma is one of the three different types of mesothelioma cancer. The other two types are pericardial and peritoneal. Out of the three types, pleural is the most common to be diagnosed, at seventy-five percent of all Mesothelioma diagnosis.
Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, which is called the pleura. When cancer is in the pleura it is referred to as pleural mesothelioma, along with the lungs, there is a thin membrane which is called the mesothelium, thus, the name of the cancer. The mesothelium's function is to provide fluid for the lungs so that they can contract and expand. The mesothelium is vital in order to breath.
Pleural mesothelioma develops when a person is constantly exposed to asbestos. A lot of patients who have pleural mesothelioma were exposed to the asbestos while at work.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled on a continuous basis they become embedded in the pleura. When they embed themselves in the pleura it settles and causes inflammation. With the inflammation comes the danger of cancerous tumors. It can take years before the cancer surfaces.
Symptoms for mesothelioma do not usually occur until the late stages. Some of the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest pain, fluid around the lungs, and difficulty speaking or hoarseness.
These symptoms can be, and often are, confused with other common illness, which makes pleural mesothelioma extremely hard to diagnose correctly. In most cases the first symptom of pleural mesothelioma is chest pain. The chest pain is caused by growing tumors in the pleural space. The tumors also cause the pleural space to fill with fluid.
There is no cure for pleural mesothelioma but there are many treatment options and researchers are working on more treatment options daily.
Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, which is called the pleura. When cancer is in the pleura it is referred to as pleural mesothelioma, along with the lungs, there is a thin membrane which is called the mesothelium, thus, the name of the cancer. The mesothelium's function is to provide fluid for the lungs so that they can contract and expand. The mesothelium is vital in order to breath.
Pleural mesothelioma develops when a person is constantly exposed to asbestos. A lot of patients who have pleural mesothelioma were exposed to the asbestos while at work.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled on a continuous basis they become embedded in the pleura. When they embed themselves in the pleura it settles and causes inflammation. With the inflammation comes the danger of cancerous tumors. It can take years before the cancer surfaces.
Symptoms for mesothelioma do not usually occur until the late stages. Some of the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest pain, fluid around the lungs, and difficulty speaking or hoarseness.
These symptoms can be, and often are, confused with other common illness, which makes pleural mesothelioma extremely hard to diagnose correctly. In most cases the first symptom of pleural mesothelioma is chest pain. The chest pain is caused by growing tumors in the pleural space. The tumors also cause the pleural space to fill with fluid.
There is no cure for pleural mesothelioma but there are many treatment options and researchers are working on more treatment options daily.
Asbestos Laws and Occupations at Risk
Although state and federal governments have established statutes to regulate the use of asbestos, many occupational and household cases of asbestos exposure continue to cause dangerous asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma or asbestosis. The asbestos laws work to protect those who have been exposed to the dangerous substance and wish to seek compensation for their suffering. Diagnosis of these diseases does not end favorably in most cases and many victims are only given a year to live after the initial diagnosis. Asbestos was an acceptable and commonly used substance in the 1940s, 50s, 60s and even 70s, however, scientists and doctors have come to understand that the material is deadly to those who were exposed to it for long periods of time.
Asbestos at Work
In the workplace, asbestos laws state that the acceptable level of asbestos is 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter in a 30-minute time period. The laws also require employers to test for asbestos exposure levels, as well as provide employees with protective clothing and equipment, hygienic work areas, and adequate training on how to work with materials that contain asbestos.
Exposure to dangerous asbestos fibers has caused the development of cancer in a variety of different occupations over the years. The fibers, once inhaled or ingested, begin to scar the tissue inside of the body. Cancer caused by asbestos exposure often does not show any symptoms for several decades, slowly developing and spreading over time. Certain occupations are at a higher risk level than others, depending on the amount and time that the person is exposed to the asbestos fibers without any kind of protective mask.
While some occupations are more obviously at risk, such as construction workers who come in direct contact with insulation filled with asbestos, some workers may have no idea that they are being exposed to such a dangerous substance. Mechanics, for example, may be unaware of the danger of brake pads, which often contain asbestos. Plumbers may also be unknowingly at risk of developing cancer due to the asbestos found in pipes and other materials associated with their job.
Occupations at risk of asbestos exposure include, but are not limited to Engineers, Oil Refinery Workers, Painters, Railroad Workers, Plumbers, Mechanics, Welders, Teachers, Construction Workers, Sailors, Blacksmiths, Hairdressers, and Insulators.
A Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help
If you have been exposed to asbestos due to occupational conditions or the use of household products containing the substance, contact an attorney immediately to discuss your legal options. You may be eligible to seek damages for past and future medical bills, lost income, loss of potential earnings, pain and suffering, and more. If your employer has not followed the state and federal regulations passed to protect workers from asbestos exposure, it is your legal right to organize a lawsuit against your negligent employer.
Asbestos at Work
In the workplace, asbestos laws state that the acceptable level of asbestos is 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter in a 30-minute time period. The laws also require employers to test for asbestos exposure levels, as well as provide employees with protective clothing and equipment, hygienic work areas, and adequate training on how to work with materials that contain asbestos.
Exposure to dangerous asbestos fibers has caused the development of cancer in a variety of different occupations over the years. The fibers, once inhaled or ingested, begin to scar the tissue inside of the body. Cancer caused by asbestos exposure often does not show any symptoms for several decades, slowly developing and spreading over time. Certain occupations are at a higher risk level than others, depending on the amount and time that the person is exposed to the asbestos fibers without any kind of protective mask.
While some occupations are more obviously at risk, such as construction workers who come in direct contact with insulation filled with asbestos, some workers may have no idea that they are being exposed to such a dangerous substance. Mechanics, for example, may be unaware of the danger of brake pads, which often contain asbestos. Plumbers may also be unknowingly at risk of developing cancer due to the asbestos found in pipes and other materials associated with their job.
Occupations at risk of asbestos exposure include, but are not limited to Engineers, Oil Refinery Workers, Painters, Railroad Workers, Plumbers, Mechanics, Welders, Teachers, Construction Workers, Sailors, Blacksmiths, Hairdressers, and Insulators.
A Mesothelioma Lawyer Can Help
If you have been exposed to asbestos due to occupational conditions or the use of household products containing the substance, contact an attorney immediately to discuss your legal options. You may be eligible to seek damages for past and future medical bills, lost income, loss of potential earnings, pain and suffering, and more. If your employer has not followed the state and federal regulations passed to protect workers from asbestos exposure, it is your legal right to organize a lawsuit against your negligent employer.
Asbestos Mesothelioma Treatment - How Treatment is Conducted For Asbestos Mesothelioma Cancer
There are different types of treatment for mesothelioma, which is caused by asbestos exposure. The different therapies include: conventional therapies, experimental, and holistic therapies.
The first thing to do when diagnosed with mesothelioma is to find the physician that is best for you. You will need help in researching and deciding which treatment is best for you and a physician will know the answers you are seeking.
Not only should the physician know about the disease but they should also be able to guide you and help you to decide the best treatment option. It can also be helpful to look at informational and educational resources to help you better understand the condition.
It is important at this point to figure out what stage of the disease you are in. The process of finding this out is called "staging". A physician can base a decision as to the best treatment option on the stage and general health the patient is in. "Staging" can tell the physician if the cancer has spread, and if it has, to where in the body it has spread.
Chemotherapy is among one of the most widely used treatments of mesothelioma. Chemotherapy consists of using very strong medications to kill the cancer. The downfall is that chemotherapy can also harm healthy cells in the body. For example, you will notice that most patients undergoing chemotherapy lose their hair. Chemotherapy usually affects the healthy cells that grow quickly, hair being one of these cells. Another common side effect is nausea. Chemotherapy can be administered at a doctor's office or hospital depending on the facility.
Radiation is another widely used and conventional type of treatment for mesothelioma caused by asbestos. In many cases, radiation is used with chemotherapy. Radiation is used to attack cancerous tissue and keep it from spreading. It can be administered as a pill or injection and depending on the type of radiation it can be implanted into the body as a seed, capsule, or wire.
These are forms of internal radiation. There are also types of external radiation which are provided by a machine that has a source of a radioactive substance that can be accelerated in the body from the outside. Radiation like chemotherapy also has side effects such as exhaustion and nausea. Radiation is usually an outpatient procedure.
Surgery is another conventional form of therapy for mesothelioma. Surgery can be preformed to remove sources of cancer. Surgery is usually accompanied by chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are just the conventional methods of treatment and there are certainly many more options to choose from when considering therapy for mesothelioma caused by asbestos.
The first thing to do when diagnosed with mesothelioma is to find the physician that is best for you. You will need help in researching and deciding which treatment is best for you and a physician will know the answers you are seeking.
Not only should the physician know about the disease but they should also be able to guide you and help you to decide the best treatment option. It can also be helpful to look at informational and educational resources to help you better understand the condition.
It is important at this point to figure out what stage of the disease you are in. The process of finding this out is called "staging". A physician can base a decision as to the best treatment option on the stage and general health the patient is in. "Staging" can tell the physician if the cancer has spread, and if it has, to where in the body it has spread.
Chemotherapy is among one of the most widely used treatments of mesothelioma. Chemotherapy consists of using very strong medications to kill the cancer. The downfall is that chemotherapy can also harm healthy cells in the body. For example, you will notice that most patients undergoing chemotherapy lose their hair. Chemotherapy usually affects the healthy cells that grow quickly, hair being one of these cells. Another common side effect is nausea. Chemotherapy can be administered at a doctor's office or hospital depending on the facility.
Radiation is another widely used and conventional type of treatment for mesothelioma caused by asbestos. In many cases, radiation is used with chemotherapy. Radiation is used to attack cancerous tissue and keep it from spreading. It can be administered as a pill or injection and depending on the type of radiation it can be implanted into the body as a seed, capsule, or wire.
These are forms of internal radiation. There are also types of external radiation which are provided by a machine that has a source of a radioactive substance that can be accelerated in the body from the outside. Radiation like chemotherapy also has side effects such as exhaustion and nausea. Radiation is usually an outpatient procedure.
Surgery is another conventional form of therapy for mesothelioma. Surgery can be preformed to remove sources of cancer. Surgery is usually accompanied by chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are just the conventional methods of treatment and there are certainly many more options to choose from when considering therapy for mesothelioma caused by asbestos.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Mesothelioma Treatment Research
Obviously Mesothelioma treatment research is important for the person who has the cancer, the family of the person who has the cancer, and for physicians and researchers who are trying to find a cure.
For the patient it is very important to research the disease for many reasons. One reason is that it helps you to understand the disease. While researching you can find others who have the disease and what treatments have worked the best for them.
Thanks to chemical and laboratory researchers there are lots of new treatments available. Researching can also help you to understand things that could have caused the cancer. Taking the time to research and find out as much as you can about the disease can give you a piece of mind about what you or your loved one may be going through.
On the other side the work done by chemical and laboratory researchers is of most importance. Researchers are busy daily trying to find a way to treat, and hopefully in the future, cure mesothelioma. While they research, they find new and better ways to treat the disease.
Researchers realize that each person is different and they are trying to find a way to help everyone with mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. It is because of these devoted people that we have the treatments we use today. Researchers test there theories by doing clinical trials, and consistently trying to learn more about the biology of mesothelioma.
Each person is different and therefore requires a different form of treatment. Some go with the more conventional treatment plan while others may try clinical trials. Finding out the best treatment is important, and researching is a big aid in the fight.
There are many different ways to treat and even put cancer into remission. Many treatments that researchers have constructed are proven to be very effective, but so far there is no guarantee that a treatment will work for every patient. But, there is hope, because there are many companies, agencies, and professionals that are helping in the fight to end Mesothelioma cancer.
For the patient it is very important to research the disease for many reasons. One reason is that it helps you to understand the disease. While researching you can find others who have the disease and what treatments have worked the best for them.
Thanks to chemical and laboratory researchers there are lots of new treatments available. Researching can also help you to understand things that could have caused the cancer. Taking the time to research and find out as much as you can about the disease can give you a piece of mind about what you or your loved one may be going through.
On the other side the work done by chemical and laboratory researchers is of most importance. Researchers are busy daily trying to find a way to treat, and hopefully in the future, cure mesothelioma. While they research, they find new and better ways to treat the disease.
Researchers realize that each person is different and they are trying to find a way to help everyone with mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. It is because of these devoted people that we have the treatments we use today. Researchers test there theories by doing clinical trials, and consistently trying to learn more about the biology of mesothelioma.
Each person is different and therefore requires a different form of treatment. Some go with the more conventional treatment plan while others may try clinical trials. Finding out the best treatment is important, and researching is a big aid in the fight.
There are many different ways to treat and even put cancer into remission. Many treatments that researchers have constructed are proven to be very effective, but so far there is no guarantee that a treatment will work for every patient. But, there is hope, because there are many companies, agencies, and professionals that are helping in the fight to end Mesothelioma cancer.
British Workers Ignorant to the Dangers of Asbestos
A British Lung Foundation survey has revealed that most tradespeople are unaware of the health risks posed by asbestos. Out of 400 people in this survey relating to asbestos, it was found that 75% had not received any form of asbestos awareness training. The survey showed that asbestos related diseases are currently the main cause of work related ill health. The survey on the mineral fiber estimated that approximately 3000 people die each year due to exposure to the mineral dust.
This fiber was commonly used in the construction of many buildings due to its insulation and fire retardant properties. It was used in some building materials until 1999; however most was phased out in the early 1980s. Tradespeople now have the highest risk of developing asbestos related lung cancers, mesothelioma and asbestosis as they regularly disturb and come into contact with materials that may contain asbestos fibres. Building owners should always consider having a survey carried out on their premise. An asbestos survey can help evaluate the presence and extent of any suspect asbestos containing materials in any building and assess their condition.
The British Lung Foundation survey relating to the fiber concentrated on builders, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, joiners and gas fitters. The survey found one in 10 had felt under pressure to continue working even if they had not seen a survey for the building and suspected that the dangerous fiber was present. In addition, nearly a third of those in the survey mistakenly believed that they did not need to see any types of asbestos survey because it had already been removed from all British buildings.
The majority of tradesmen - 81% in the British Lung Foundation's asbestos survey - said they never, rarely or only sometimes asked if the site they were working on had been checked for the fiber via an official asbestos survey, before they started a job - even though it is a legal requirement for them to see a survey which informs them of the presence of the dangerous mineral fiber.
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, it is a legal requirement that all those that may disturb the fabric of any building must have Asbestos Awareness Training. This form of awareness training for asbestos helps tradespeople increase their general awareness of the fiber within their working environment.
It has been estimated that as many as 20 tradespeople die every week as a result of exposure to this fiber in their workplace. In fact exposure to asbestos has been deemed as one of Britain's biggest workplace killers.
So why isn't awareness training a number one priority for all tradespeople because with better training they would reduce their risks of asbestos related lung disease and mesothelioma. However if the British tradespeople continue their ignorance to the dangers of asbestos and don't put their own health first then campaigns, like those run by the British Lung Foundation, to eliminate asbestos related cancers such as mesothelioma and make them a disease of the past, are a lost cause.
So lets all strive to make our British tradespeople more aware of the dangers of asbestos by making sure asbestos awareness training is a core skill they all own and all tradespeople are presented with an official survey before they start a job on a particular site.
This fiber was commonly used in the construction of many buildings due to its insulation and fire retardant properties. It was used in some building materials until 1999; however most was phased out in the early 1980s. Tradespeople now have the highest risk of developing asbestos related lung cancers, mesothelioma and asbestosis as they regularly disturb and come into contact with materials that may contain asbestos fibres. Building owners should always consider having a survey carried out on their premise. An asbestos survey can help evaluate the presence and extent of any suspect asbestos containing materials in any building and assess their condition.
The British Lung Foundation survey relating to the fiber concentrated on builders, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, joiners and gas fitters. The survey found one in 10 had felt under pressure to continue working even if they had not seen a survey for the building and suspected that the dangerous fiber was present. In addition, nearly a third of those in the survey mistakenly believed that they did not need to see any types of asbestos survey because it had already been removed from all British buildings.
The majority of tradesmen - 81% in the British Lung Foundation's asbestos survey - said they never, rarely or only sometimes asked if the site they were working on had been checked for the fiber via an official asbestos survey, before they started a job - even though it is a legal requirement for them to see a survey which informs them of the presence of the dangerous mineral fiber.
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, it is a legal requirement that all those that may disturb the fabric of any building must have Asbestos Awareness Training. This form of awareness training for asbestos helps tradespeople increase their general awareness of the fiber within their working environment.
It has been estimated that as many as 20 tradespeople die every week as a result of exposure to this fiber in their workplace. In fact exposure to asbestos has been deemed as one of Britain's biggest workplace killers.
So why isn't awareness training a number one priority for all tradespeople because with better training they would reduce their risks of asbestos related lung disease and mesothelioma. However if the British tradespeople continue their ignorance to the dangers of asbestos and don't put their own health first then campaigns, like those run by the British Lung Foundation, to eliminate asbestos related cancers such as mesothelioma and make them a disease of the past, are a lost cause.
So lets all strive to make our British tradespeople more aware of the dangers of asbestos by making sure asbestos awareness training is a core skill they all own and all tradespeople are presented with an official survey before they start a job on a particular site.
What is the Mesothelioma Survival Rate?
Mesothelioma is a fairly new type of cancer that is very serious and life threatening, as with most types of cancer. One thing that makes mesothelioma such a serious condition is that it is usually not found until the late stages of the cancer, causing the survival rate to be low. This is because the symptoms don't usually arise until the late stages.
By this time the patient most likely doesn't have much longer to live. Studies show most patients who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have a year or less left to live. Along with diagnosis being difficult and delayed, mesothelioma is also fairly uncommon and we are still learning more about the disease.
However, some studies show that one out of every ten mesothelioma patients will live up to three years after diagnosis and one out of every twenty people will live five years after diagnosis.
Studies are performed daily and new clinical trials are helping to increase the survival rate of those with mesothelioma. Survival rates vary depending on where the study is performed, and who is performing the study. In general, studies are very close in comparison.
Survival rates are based on several different factors. Some of these factors are, the size of the tumor, the stage the patient is in, whether the tumor can be completely removed with surgery, the quantity of fluid in the chest and abdomen and how long it took to diagnose the cancer.
Some other interesting facts about mesothelioma survival rates are that the average age of the patients who are diagnosed with mesothelioma are sixty one years of age and eighty one percent were male.
As said before, many studies are performed daily to find new ways to prolong the survival rate of those who have mesothelioma. Many studies have already proven to do just that. Lots of studies show that chemotherapy greatly increases the survival rate of those with mesothelioma. So, although this is a newer and less common cancer we are learning more about it daily.
With our learning we'll eventually come up with more options of treatment and this will lead to an all together higher survival rate.
By this time the patient most likely doesn't have much longer to live. Studies show most patients who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have a year or less left to live. Along with diagnosis being difficult and delayed, mesothelioma is also fairly uncommon and we are still learning more about the disease.
However, some studies show that one out of every ten mesothelioma patients will live up to three years after diagnosis and one out of every twenty people will live five years after diagnosis.
Studies are performed daily and new clinical trials are helping to increase the survival rate of those with mesothelioma. Survival rates vary depending on where the study is performed, and who is performing the study. In general, studies are very close in comparison.
Survival rates are based on several different factors. Some of these factors are, the size of the tumor, the stage the patient is in, whether the tumor can be completely removed with surgery, the quantity of fluid in the chest and abdomen and how long it took to diagnose the cancer.
Some other interesting facts about mesothelioma survival rates are that the average age of the patients who are diagnosed with mesothelioma are sixty one years of age and eighty one percent were male.
As said before, many studies are performed daily to find new ways to prolong the survival rate of those who have mesothelioma. Many studies have already proven to do just that. Lots of studies show that chemotherapy greatly increases the survival rate of those with mesothelioma. So, although this is a newer and less common cancer we are learning more about it daily.
With our learning we'll eventually come up with more options of treatment and this will lead to an all together higher survival rate.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
My Family Died From Smoking, Lung Cancer Actually
Grandparents on both sides of my family died from lung cancer and an Aunt too. My grandparents and aunt smoked for years and lung cancer was the result. Many people get cancer and never did anything, at least that they were aware of, to get it.
However they may have gotten it, and whatever type of cancer it is, it affects those who love them. But if you are a smoker, stop it. I know it's hard, I smoked too, but if you don't stop, you could get lung cancer yourself and die. Is that worth your next puff? Think about who will miss you. My grandfather is the one I saw up close. He also had throat cancer and had his larynx removed. He went from being a strong active man to a withered shell who couldn't talk. It was very sad.
Some people go through life and don't have someone they love get cancer, but it's rare. I have many friends who have gone through breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and Non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and they have all survived. I celebrate their time still here.
Certainly time has made a difference as cancer treatment was not as advanced when my grandparents had cancer.
Those who get cancer are not the only victims. Cancer impacts families and friends too. If you are a smoker, seriously, consider quitting. If you know a smoker, don't nag them to quit, just tell them you love them.
Cancer is bad, do what you can to avoid it, and if someone you love gets it, cherish them and the time you have with them. That's good advice even without cancer. Cherish those you love, and tell them.
However they may have gotten it, and whatever type of cancer it is, it affects those who love them. But if you are a smoker, stop it. I know it's hard, I smoked too, but if you don't stop, you could get lung cancer yourself and die. Is that worth your next puff? Think about who will miss you. My grandfather is the one I saw up close. He also had throat cancer and had his larynx removed. He went from being a strong active man to a withered shell who couldn't talk. It was very sad.
Some people go through life and don't have someone they love get cancer, but it's rare. I have many friends who have gone through breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and Non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and they have all survived. I celebrate their time still here.
Certainly time has made a difference as cancer treatment was not as advanced when my grandparents had cancer.
Those who get cancer are not the only victims. Cancer impacts families and friends too. If you are a smoker, seriously, consider quitting. If you know a smoker, don't nag them to quit, just tell them you love them.
Cancer is bad, do what you can to avoid it, and if someone you love gets it, cherish them and the time you have with them. That's good advice even without cancer. Cherish those you love, and tell them.
Mesothelioma Can Mimic Heart Disease
Doctors don't always come up with the right diagnosis. If they make up their mind that a condition is X, it's hard for them to think about other explanations--sometimes even in the face of evidence that contradicts their initial idea.
Diseases of the chest and the lining of the chest cavity (the peritoneum) can be very hard to diagnose. In one study a woman was found to have an artery blocked. Doctors assumed a heart condition, even though 3 months earlier she'd had fluid drained from her chest--one very important sign of mesothelioma. Doctors then performed a surgical procedure that removed the membrane surrounding the woman's heart, hoping this would give her some relief. At that point, when they examined the cells they'd removed, they finally reached a correct diagnosis that she was suffering from mesothelioma in the lining of her heart (pericardial).
Normally a biopsy is the best way to diagnose mesothelioma, but malignant mesothelioma cells can look like other kinds of cancer. Tumor tissue that's removed during biopsy must be submitted to special laboratory tests and, if necessary, examined with an electron microscope to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. The important part is to have a physician who considers all the possibilities when you describe your symptoms.
If you know someone who has ever been exposed to asbestos fibers at work or elsewhere, and they suspect they may be having a heart problem, do them a favor. Help them find a physician who knows about all of the various symptoms that asbestos-related diseases can cause. Mesothelioma is a terrible disease, but with proper treatment some patients are able to gain extra time with loved ones.
Diseases of the chest and the lining of the chest cavity (the peritoneum) can be very hard to diagnose. In one study a woman was found to have an artery blocked. Doctors assumed a heart condition, even though 3 months earlier she'd had fluid drained from her chest--one very important sign of mesothelioma. Doctors then performed a surgical procedure that removed the membrane surrounding the woman's heart, hoping this would give her some relief. At that point, when they examined the cells they'd removed, they finally reached a correct diagnosis that she was suffering from mesothelioma in the lining of her heart (pericardial).
Normally a biopsy is the best way to diagnose mesothelioma, but malignant mesothelioma cells can look like other kinds of cancer. Tumor tissue that's removed during biopsy must be submitted to special laboratory tests and, if necessary, examined with an electron microscope to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. The important part is to have a physician who considers all the possibilities when you describe your symptoms.
If you know someone who has ever been exposed to asbestos fibers at work or elsewhere, and they suspect they may be having a heart problem, do them a favor. Help them find a physician who knows about all of the various symptoms that asbestos-related diseases can cause. Mesothelioma is a terrible disease, but with proper treatment some patients are able to gain extra time with loved ones.
Effects Of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is often times a terminal disease that's generally a byproduct of smoking. Being diagnosed with lung cancer can be devastating to anyone. This includes the pain and fear of the sick person as well as their friends and family.
It affects the small cells of the lungs and surrounding regions, which include the lymph nodes and surrounding organs.
Since smoking is the major cause of lung cancer, the best method of prevention is to quit smoking as soon as possible. However sometimes quitting isn't enough. Cancer can also be caused by second hand smoke. The good news is that in many states it is now illegal to smoke in public places. This greatly cuts down your chances of breathing in second hand smoke. But you should also be careful to limit any time you many spend with friends who are smokers.
Treatment options often include chemotherapy which isn't a very appealing option. Radiation is another possible treatment; however it's equally as unappealing. There are some alternative treatments available. These usually include hypnosis or "alternative" medication. It's important to research all of these completely, because sometimes they can cause more harm then good.
Many times the symptoms can be hard to recognize. However if they're not caught early, it can be too late to save the effected person. One of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms of lung cancer is coughing up blood. If this starts to happen you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. He'll be able to run test to see if there are any tumors present. The important thing is to catch these symptoms early before it's too late.
It affects the small cells of the lungs and surrounding regions, which include the lymph nodes and surrounding organs.
Since smoking is the major cause of lung cancer, the best method of prevention is to quit smoking as soon as possible. However sometimes quitting isn't enough. Cancer can also be caused by second hand smoke. The good news is that in many states it is now illegal to smoke in public places. This greatly cuts down your chances of breathing in second hand smoke. But you should also be careful to limit any time you many spend with friends who are smokers.
Treatment options often include chemotherapy which isn't a very appealing option. Radiation is another possible treatment; however it's equally as unappealing. There are some alternative treatments available. These usually include hypnosis or "alternative" medication. It's important to research all of these completely, because sometimes they can cause more harm then good.
Many times the symptoms can be hard to recognize. However if they're not caught early, it can be too late to save the effected person. One of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms of lung cancer is coughing up blood. If this starts to happen you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. He'll be able to run test to see if there are any tumors present. The important thing is to catch these symptoms early before it's too late.
These Are the Most Prevalent Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by asbestos and it affects the lining of the abdomen, the lungs and the heart. When the cancer is malignant, it can be fatal and you are advised to see the doctor immediately you notice the symptoms of this illness. There are very many mesothelioma symptoms and you need to make sure you know them in order to help yourself or someone else. When the condition affects the lungs, the patient will have excess fluid in their lungs and they can have a dry cough and the doctor examination will reveal that the breath sounds are silent while the tapping on the chest will reveal a dull sound. The normal sound is supposed to be hollow.
In the abdomen, patients will experience a mass and discomfort. Pain is usually a major symptom and patients will also experience irritable bowel syndrome. There will also be feelings of fever and fatigue. Many will be sure that something is wrong but, cannot point a finger at what exactly is wrong. All these symptoms will happen 20 to 50 years after you are exposed to asbestos and therefore it is more difficult than other diseases. The mesothelioma symptoms are similar to other diseases like flu, pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease and many others. There are other mesothelioma symptoms and some patients could present with more symptoms than than the ones that are known.
Other symptoms include the lack of appetite and difficulties in sleeping. Since the disease will affect many parts of the body, the throat will also be affected and the person may have difficulty swallowing. Others will experience a husky voice and they should get checked out to rule out other diseases that it could be. The two most common problems that will see a patient seek medical help are the lack of breathe and the persistent coughing which are caused by the tumors in the lungs because they are not able to expand properly. It is said that the difficulty to sleep causes the loss of appetite and the lack of appetite will cause weight loss.
The abdominal illness will cause vomiting and also lack of appetite which will eventually lead to weight loss. Heart palpitations are other mesothelioma symptoms and they will present a lot discomfort in a patient. With all these symptoms, you need to make sure that you do not have the disease but, if you have it, there is hope because the treatments are widely available for you. When you experience all the mesothelioma symptoms, do not conclude that you are sick. When you visit a doctor, he will undertake so many other tests including a biopsy. Then you need to be checked and the conclusion will take sometime but, it will be conclusive. The tumors can be cancerous or malignant and they can also be benign or non cancerous. It is good for you to get regular check ups by the doctor and you do not have to wait for you to start showing signs of an illness. The most vital thing however is to stay away from asbestos and tell others to do the same.
In the abdomen, patients will experience a mass and discomfort. Pain is usually a major symptom and patients will also experience irritable bowel syndrome. There will also be feelings of fever and fatigue. Many will be sure that something is wrong but, cannot point a finger at what exactly is wrong. All these symptoms will happen 20 to 50 years after you are exposed to asbestos and therefore it is more difficult than other diseases. The mesothelioma symptoms are similar to other diseases like flu, pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease and many others. There are other mesothelioma symptoms and some patients could present with more symptoms than than the ones that are known.
Other symptoms include the lack of appetite and difficulties in sleeping. Since the disease will affect many parts of the body, the throat will also be affected and the person may have difficulty swallowing. Others will experience a husky voice and they should get checked out to rule out other diseases that it could be. The two most common problems that will see a patient seek medical help are the lack of breathe and the persistent coughing which are caused by the tumors in the lungs because they are not able to expand properly. It is said that the difficulty to sleep causes the loss of appetite and the lack of appetite will cause weight loss.
The abdominal illness will cause vomiting and also lack of appetite which will eventually lead to weight loss. Heart palpitations are other mesothelioma symptoms and they will present a lot discomfort in a patient. With all these symptoms, you need to make sure that you do not have the disease but, if you have it, there is hope because the treatments are widely available for you. When you experience all the mesothelioma symptoms, do not conclude that you are sick. When you visit a doctor, he will undertake so many other tests including a biopsy. Then you need to be checked and the conclusion will take sometime but, it will be conclusive. The tumors can be cancerous or malignant and they can also be benign or non cancerous. It is good for you to get regular check ups by the doctor and you do not have to wait for you to start showing signs of an illness. The most vital thing however is to stay away from asbestos and tell others to do the same.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
How to Find Mesothelioma Information on the Internet
On the internet, there is a lot of mesothelioma information and reading through various sites will give you so much insight. Mesothelioma is a lung cancer and is also known as asbestos cancer. Even though malignant mesothelioma is uncommon, a certain percentage of people suffer from the disease and this kind is the worse because it responds poorly to therapy. Mesothelioma cells can be found on the lining of the chest, heart and abdominal cavity. Therefore, when these cells are abnormally produced, they will increase the fluid as well as create tumors in the cells. The tumors can be non cancerous or benign and they can be cancerous or malignant. It is especially difficult to diagnose the disease.
There is mesothelioma information that links asbestos to the disease. There has been conclusive study to show that asbestos will cause the illness. J.C Wagner has documented 32 cases of workers in South Africa at asbestos hills. And each worker confirmed that the exposure of asbestos will give rise to symptoms of the disease. The disease will manifest itself in 3 common places and they are the lungs, abdomen and heart. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the disease that affects the abdomen. Mesothelioma information will tell you who is at risk of the disease. Firstly, due to the association of asbestos to the cancer, people who work around the compound will be at a very high risk. It is said that even little contact will play a major role in ensuring the disease starts and continues.
People who inhale the asbestos dust are also at risk and the workers who are more likely to come into contact with the substance are insulators, boilermakers, ship fitters, steel workers, maintenance workers, pipe fitters and brake mechanics. This people can also put their families at risk when they come into contact with cloths or equipment that has been exposed. It is said that most workers do not know they are working with asbestos and it is therefore a responsibility of the company which contracts people to take the necessary precautions including informing the workers to be more careful. There is treatment available and like many other illnesses early detection will ensure that you have a bigger chance of total recovery.
There are several factors that will determine whether the disease will be managed effectively. The first is the age of the person and the older the person is, the more difficult it can be to treat although not in all cases. The appearance of the cells under a microscope will be vital. If the illness is responding well to treatment, then there is more hope for the disease to be totally cured. The other most vital factors are the location of the cancer, size and spread. There is so much much mesothelioma information for you to look at. You can get to know what your legal rights are and get the latest updates on the subject. Information will always empower you to make better decisions and know what to expect. There are very many other resources to read apart from the internet.
There is mesothelioma information that links asbestos to the disease. There has been conclusive study to show that asbestos will cause the illness. J.C Wagner has documented 32 cases of workers in South Africa at asbestos hills. And each worker confirmed that the exposure of asbestos will give rise to symptoms of the disease. The disease will manifest itself in 3 common places and they are the lungs, abdomen and heart. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the disease that affects the abdomen. Mesothelioma information will tell you who is at risk of the disease. Firstly, due to the association of asbestos to the cancer, people who work around the compound will be at a very high risk. It is said that even little contact will play a major role in ensuring the disease starts and continues.
People who inhale the asbestos dust are also at risk and the workers who are more likely to come into contact with the substance are insulators, boilermakers, ship fitters, steel workers, maintenance workers, pipe fitters and brake mechanics. This people can also put their families at risk when they come into contact with cloths or equipment that has been exposed. It is said that most workers do not know they are working with asbestos and it is therefore a responsibility of the company which contracts people to take the necessary precautions including informing the workers to be more careful. There is treatment available and like many other illnesses early detection will ensure that you have a bigger chance of total recovery.
There are several factors that will determine whether the disease will be managed effectively. The first is the age of the person and the older the person is, the more difficult it can be to treat although not in all cases. The appearance of the cells under a microscope will be vital. If the illness is responding well to treatment, then there is more hope for the disease to be totally cured. The other most vital factors are the location of the cancer, size and spread. There is so much much mesothelioma information for you to look at. You can get to know what your legal rights are and get the latest updates on the subject. Information will always empower you to make better decisions and know what to expect. There are very many other resources to read apart from the internet.
Mesothelioma - Do You Need To Worry?
Mesothelioma is a unique cancer that's directly associated with asbestos. This cancer grows in the mesothelium which is the lining that encapsulates many of the body's organs but is more common in the lungs and chest cavity.
This particular disease is difficult to discover as you may not suffer symptoms for several decades after having exposure to asbestos. A few of the more common symptoms are breathlessness, fluid surrounding the lungs, tiredness, and an abrasive cough that might have blood in it.
It also has symptoms like several other conditions such as Tuberculosis and different kinds of lung cancer. The only way to make certain is to get X-rays, CAT scans, or magnetic resonance imaging carried out. Delaying this procedure is not wise if you have any reason to believe you may be at risk.
Fortunately, the likelihood of picking up mesothelioma today is uncommon. There is an undertaking to make certain that outlawing the use of asbestos in common construction materials is stopped and exhaustive checking of older constructions is underway, rebuilding them if needed. Winding asbestos around water pipes was common in aged buildings and using it in ceilings was practised as well.
Although it is naturally occurring, it is difficult to just come across asbestos today. Although using it in concrete, brake pads, and in many diverse fireproof materials was common practice for a longtime.
Mineworkers and their kinfolk because of working in the mines, laundering miner's clothing, and experiencing much asbestos in their surroundings, contracted mesothelioma as an outcome. Recognising the long-term dangers of the substance at the time was not known and unfortunately there were little or no safeguards employed when using it.
This particular disease is difficult to discover as you may not suffer symptoms for several decades after having exposure to asbestos. A few of the more common symptoms are breathlessness, fluid surrounding the lungs, tiredness, and an abrasive cough that might have blood in it.
It also has symptoms like several other conditions such as Tuberculosis and different kinds of lung cancer. The only way to make certain is to get X-rays, CAT scans, or magnetic resonance imaging carried out. Delaying this procedure is not wise if you have any reason to believe you may be at risk.
Fortunately, the likelihood of picking up mesothelioma today is uncommon. There is an undertaking to make certain that outlawing the use of asbestos in common construction materials is stopped and exhaustive checking of older constructions is underway, rebuilding them if needed. Winding asbestos around water pipes was common in aged buildings and using it in ceilings was practised as well.
Although it is naturally occurring, it is difficult to just come across asbestos today. Although using it in concrete, brake pads, and in many diverse fireproof materials was common practice for a longtime.
Mineworkers and their kinfolk because of working in the mines, laundering miner's clothing, and experiencing much asbestos in their surroundings, contracted mesothelioma as an outcome. Recognising the long-term dangers of the substance at the time was not known and unfortunately there were little or no safeguards employed when using it.
Mesothelioma Cancer History
Asbestos, which is the main cause of mesothelioma, was discovered in the early 20th century. There were many articles written in the 1930's that indicated that asbestos was linked to cancer. The very first to be written suggested that asbestos was the primary cause of lung cancer. That publication was called "Pulmonary Asbestosis."
During 1955 a connection was established between the development of certain forms of lung cancer and the ingestion of asbestos fibers, which confirmed this theory.
Long ago, mine waste, which contained asbestos, was used to cover schoolyards and playgrounds. It was at this time when many people who didn't even work in or around asbestos began to contract mesothelioma.
It became a risk to those who just lived in the neighborhoods of asbestos factories. A person no longer had to work with it to be at risk. It was affecting many others as well.
The last asbestos mining was stopped in 1966. It was rumored that officials knew of the hazards for years prior to it's closure, but continued to conduct business as usual, despite the deadly consequences.
It is unknown why the mine was allowed to operate without any risk control and why the place wasn't forced to shut down before that time. They were never even enforced to adopt safer work practices to make it a safer work environment for their workers. Every year there were more and more cases of mesothelioma reported and it was just getting worse.
The first diagnosed case of mesothelioma was of an Australian mine and mill worker who worked in the asbestos mining industry for three years. It was getting to the point where people who lived in the town where the asbestos mining was being conducted were developing mesothelioma as well.
This caused many problems with the people in the community until 1978, when the Australian Government phased out the town completely. The asbestos exposure was so great, that shutting down the mine just wasn't enough. The town had been exposed to this deadly substance for so long, that the entire town has to be closed and condemned!
During 1955 a connection was established between the development of certain forms of lung cancer and the ingestion of asbestos fibers, which confirmed this theory.
Long ago, mine waste, which contained asbestos, was used to cover schoolyards and playgrounds. It was at this time when many people who didn't even work in or around asbestos began to contract mesothelioma.
It became a risk to those who just lived in the neighborhoods of asbestos factories. A person no longer had to work with it to be at risk. It was affecting many others as well.
The last asbestos mining was stopped in 1966. It was rumored that officials knew of the hazards for years prior to it's closure, but continued to conduct business as usual, despite the deadly consequences.
It is unknown why the mine was allowed to operate without any risk control and why the place wasn't forced to shut down before that time. They were never even enforced to adopt safer work practices to make it a safer work environment for their workers. Every year there were more and more cases of mesothelioma reported and it was just getting worse.
The first diagnosed case of mesothelioma was of an Australian mine and mill worker who worked in the asbestos mining industry for three years. It was getting to the point where people who lived in the town where the asbestos mining was being conducted were developing mesothelioma as well.
This caused many problems with the people in the community until 1978, when the Australian Government phased out the town completely. The asbestos exposure was so great, that shutting down the mine just wasn't enough. The town had been exposed to this deadly substance for so long, that the entire town has to be closed and condemned!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
How To Prevent Lung Cancer
What are the symptoms of lung cancer? You should be suspicious if you have a nagging cough that brings up blood-streaked sputum, more so if you smoke and have a family history of the disease. Other warning signs are shortness of breath, hoarseness, chest pain, arm or shoulder pain, loss of appetite and weight.
"Generally, lung cancer is first suspected because of your physical symptoms or because an abnormal mass appears on a routine chest X-ray. Loss of appetite and weight may be the first signs of a lung cancer. In this case, the first step is to determine with certainty whether or not cancer is present. In addition to a regular chest X-ray, tomograms (special chest X-rays that give a highly localized view of the lung) or other special studies such as a CT scan may be obtained," according to Dr. David E. Larson, editor-in-chief of the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book."
Unfortunately, lung cancer happens to be one of the hardest cancers to detect since it can be present for 10 to 20 years without causing any noticeable symptom. Five to 10 percent of cases are discovered accidentally during a routine X-ray exam.
Common symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and aches are often ignored or mistaken by the patient for something else. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may have reached an incurable stage. This explains the poor prognosis of most patients with the disease.
The easiest way to avoid lung cancer is to stop smoking. It may be difficult to quit but it is not impossible. Millions of people have done it and those who quit lessen their chances of developing lung cancer by two-thirds.
Ninety percent of people who stop smoking do it on their own so start now before it's too late. If you find that hard to do, you can join smoking cessation classes or enroll in a clinic that offers the same service. Choose the program that makes the most sense to you and enlist the help of friends or loved ones to make things easier for you.
For those with cancer who can still be helped, surgery is the preferred treatment. Chemotherapy and radiation are recommended depending on the type of cancer, the patient's age and overall health, and the extent of the disease.
"A cancerous tumor in the lung is usually removed surgically. It is sometimes necessary to remove an entire lobe of the lung. Because lung cancers are usually not detected until they are well advanced, surgery alone may not be able to eliminate them, and radiation and chemotherapy may be used in combination with or in place of surgery," explained the editors of Consumer Guide's "Family Health & Medical Guide."
Which treatment is best for you? Only your doctor can answer that. But here are some suggestions from Dr. Isadore Rosenfeld of the New York Hospital - Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in "The Best Treatment":
"Here is what I recommend to my own patients with lung cancer. If the cancer, regardless of its cell type, appears not to have spread and lung function is good, then surgery should be done without delay, and in all age groups, even in the elderly who are otherwise in good health. Oat cell cancers are treated with chemotherapy and radiation, as recommended by an oncologist.
"If CT scans and other tests indicate that it's too late for surgery (because the cancer has already spread to the glands in the opposite side of the chest or elsewhere), I leave it alone if it's not causing any symptoms. I prescribe radiation, surgery, or chemotherapy only if the incurable cancer is causing symptoms. The purpose of intervention at this point is to make the person feel better. When a patient with advanced lung cancer has no complaints, I have them do nothing. This approach is not shared by all or even most doctors. The majority of my colleagues go full-blast with radiation, surgery, and toxic chemotherapy in the hope of obtaining a cure, which rarely, if ever, happens at that stage. Such treatment, in my experience, often accelerates or prolongs suffering," Rosenfeld concluded. (Next: Breast cancer.)
"Generally, lung cancer is first suspected because of your physical symptoms or because an abnormal mass appears on a routine chest X-ray. Loss of appetite and weight may be the first signs of a lung cancer. In this case, the first step is to determine with certainty whether or not cancer is present. In addition to a regular chest X-ray, tomograms (special chest X-rays that give a highly localized view of the lung) or other special studies such as a CT scan may be obtained," according to Dr. David E. Larson, editor-in-chief of the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book."
Unfortunately, lung cancer happens to be one of the hardest cancers to detect since it can be present for 10 to 20 years without causing any noticeable symptom. Five to 10 percent of cases are discovered accidentally during a routine X-ray exam.
Common symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and aches are often ignored or mistaken by the patient for something else. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may have reached an incurable stage. This explains the poor prognosis of most patients with the disease.
The easiest way to avoid lung cancer is to stop smoking. It may be difficult to quit but it is not impossible. Millions of people have done it and those who quit lessen their chances of developing lung cancer by two-thirds.
Ninety percent of people who stop smoking do it on their own so start now before it's too late. If you find that hard to do, you can join smoking cessation classes or enroll in a clinic that offers the same service. Choose the program that makes the most sense to you and enlist the help of friends or loved ones to make things easier for you.
For those with cancer who can still be helped, surgery is the preferred treatment. Chemotherapy and radiation are recommended depending on the type of cancer, the patient's age and overall health, and the extent of the disease.
"A cancerous tumor in the lung is usually removed surgically. It is sometimes necessary to remove an entire lobe of the lung. Because lung cancers are usually not detected until they are well advanced, surgery alone may not be able to eliminate them, and radiation and chemotherapy may be used in combination with or in place of surgery," explained the editors of Consumer Guide's "Family Health & Medical Guide."
Which treatment is best for you? Only your doctor can answer that. But here are some suggestions from Dr. Isadore Rosenfeld of the New York Hospital - Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in "The Best Treatment":
"Here is what I recommend to my own patients with lung cancer. If the cancer, regardless of its cell type, appears not to have spread and lung function is good, then surgery should be done without delay, and in all age groups, even in the elderly who are otherwise in good health. Oat cell cancers are treated with chemotherapy and radiation, as recommended by an oncologist.
"If CT scans and other tests indicate that it's too late for surgery (because the cancer has already spread to the glands in the opposite side of the chest or elsewhere), I leave it alone if it's not causing any symptoms. I prescribe radiation, surgery, or chemotherapy only if the incurable cancer is causing symptoms. The purpose of intervention at this point is to make the person feel better. When a patient with advanced lung cancer has no complaints, I have them do nothing. This approach is not shared by all or even most doctors. The majority of my colleagues go full-blast with radiation, surgery, and toxic chemotherapy in the hope of obtaining a cure, which rarely, if ever, happens at that stage. Such treatment, in my experience, often accelerates or prolongs suffering," Rosenfeld concluded. (Next: Breast cancer.)
New Drug May Help Fight Cancer
While doctors and scientists have made some exciting medical advances over the last couple of decades, we still struggle to understand and control one of the deadliest diseases out there - cancer. Cancer develops in various ways, sometimes showing obvious symptoms and sometimes appearing with no warning at all. The development of mesothelioma, for example, has been directly linked to exposure to dangerous asbestos fibers. Once inhaled, these fibers begin to scar the healthy tissue inside, causing a build up of scar-tissue and other problems over time. Although the outward symptoms take decades to show, the cancer growing inside of the body is not nearly as slow.
The development of cancer involves the rapid and uncontrolled growth of cancer cells within the body. Over time, these cells may develop into cancerous growths known as tumors, creating an even greater threat to the health of the body. Doctors and scientists alike have been searching for a cure for this deadly disease for many years and have only been able to treat the symptoms, rather than the cancer itself. Recent studies have shown that there may be a drug in development that has the ability to fight the cancer cells directly.
While researching drugs to help prevent radiation damage from possible nuclear warfare, scientists have created a drug that not only helps those exposed to radiation, but also those suffering from the damaging effects of cancer cells. Andrei Gudkov, a scientist at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, has been working on the newest drug to fight cancer, currently known as CBLB502. After working for years to develop a drug to help destroy cancer, Gudkov had the idea to use cancer's own tactics to fight against it.
When our cells are exposed to damaging radiation, they commit cellular suicide, also known as apoptosis. Cancer cells, however, block this process and allow dangerous tumors to form as unhealthy cells multiple uncontrollably. Gudkov and a team of scientists use the drug, CBLB502, to block apoptosis in the same manner as cancer, however, they block the suicide of healthy cells. This causes healthy cells to regenerate rather than deadly cancerous cells that develop from radiation and other forms of exposure to cancer-causing materials.
This new drug remains in development for the moment, however, the scientists at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute are optimistic that the drug will allow us to better fight the deadly disease of cancer in the future.
The development of cancer involves the rapid and uncontrolled growth of cancer cells within the body. Over time, these cells may develop into cancerous growths known as tumors, creating an even greater threat to the health of the body. Doctors and scientists alike have been searching for a cure for this deadly disease for many years and have only been able to treat the symptoms, rather than the cancer itself. Recent studies have shown that there may be a drug in development that has the ability to fight the cancer cells directly.
While researching drugs to help prevent radiation damage from possible nuclear warfare, scientists have created a drug that not only helps those exposed to radiation, but also those suffering from the damaging effects of cancer cells. Andrei Gudkov, a scientist at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, has been working on the newest drug to fight cancer, currently known as CBLB502. After working for years to develop a drug to help destroy cancer, Gudkov had the idea to use cancer's own tactics to fight against it.
When our cells are exposed to damaging radiation, they commit cellular suicide, also known as apoptosis. Cancer cells, however, block this process and allow dangerous tumors to form as unhealthy cells multiple uncontrollably. Gudkov and a team of scientists use the drug, CBLB502, to block apoptosis in the same manner as cancer, however, they block the suicide of healthy cells. This causes healthy cells to regenerate rather than deadly cancerous cells that develop from radiation and other forms of exposure to cancer-causing materials.
This new drug remains in development for the moment, however, the scientists at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute are optimistic that the drug will allow us to better fight the deadly disease of cancer in the future.
Asbestos Lung Cancer Types And Treatment
Lung cancer of asbestos workers has increased greatly over the years. This is obviously due to the fact that the workers are exposed to the asbestos and breathe it in on a daily basis. This lung cancer (mesothelioma) is even more significant among the asbestos workers who smoke cigarettes.
Most lung cancer caused by excessive exposure to asbestos starts in the lining of the bronchi. The bronchi are the tubes in which the trachea or windpipe divide. It can also begin in other areas such as the alveoli, trachea, or bronchioles. The cancer usually develops slowly but once it occurs the cancer cells break away and then it spreads throughout various other body parts.
The most common places for people to breathe in asbestos is in mines, mills, factories, homes with asbestos, construction sites, during automotive repair, and pipefitting.
There are two major lung cancer types and they are:
- small cell lung cancer - The cancer cells are small and round.
- non-small cell lung cancer - The cancer cells are larger.
There have even been times when the cancer has a feature of both types. With small sell lung cancer the cells can multiply quickly and form large tumors. The tumors can then spread to the lymph nodes and to other various parts of the body.
There is treatment for asbestos lung cancer but it usually depends on the patient's health and the type of lung cancer that they have. It also depends on the size, location, and the extent of the tumor.
The different types of treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and photodynamic therapy.
The surgery is done to remove a part of the lung but it all depends on where the tumor is. It is a very serious procedure!
By using Chemotherapy, the cancerous cells are killed with drugs. Radiation works by destroying the cancer cells in the treated area. And lastly, the photodynamic therapy uses light to kill the cancerous cells. It is done by injecting a chemical into the bloodstream and is absorbed by the cells. The light then activates the chemical, destroying and killing off the cancerous cells.
Most lung cancer caused by excessive exposure to asbestos starts in the lining of the bronchi. The bronchi are the tubes in which the trachea or windpipe divide. It can also begin in other areas such as the alveoli, trachea, or bronchioles. The cancer usually develops slowly but once it occurs the cancer cells break away and then it spreads throughout various other body parts.
The most common places for people to breathe in asbestos is in mines, mills, factories, homes with asbestos, construction sites, during automotive repair, and pipefitting.
There are two major lung cancer types and they are:
- small cell lung cancer - The cancer cells are small and round.
- non-small cell lung cancer - The cancer cells are larger.
There have even been times when the cancer has a feature of both types. With small sell lung cancer the cells can multiply quickly and form large tumors. The tumors can then spread to the lymph nodes and to other various parts of the body.
There is treatment for asbestos lung cancer but it usually depends on the patient's health and the type of lung cancer that they have. It also depends on the size, location, and the extent of the tumor.
The different types of treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and photodynamic therapy.
The surgery is done to remove a part of the lung but it all depends on where the tumor is. It is a very serious procedure!
By using Chemotherapy, the cancerous cells are killed with drugs. Radiation works by destroying the cancer cells in the treated area. And lastly, the photodynamic therapy uses light to kill the cancerous cells. It is done by injecting a chemical into the bloodstream and is absorbed by the cells. The light then activates the chemical, destroying and killing off the cancerous cells.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Symptoms Of Mesothelioma
Due to the generic nature of mesothelioma symptoms they are usually ignored in most cases. Symptoms of mesothelioma are akin to those of other common diseases. Moreover, studies have concluded that patients would not develop symptoms of mesothelioma till much later in their life, ranging from about 20 to 40 years and thus not that many patients associate the symptoms to something that happened to them that long ago.
Mesothelioma is a cancer which affects the protective linings of internal organs. These linings include:
o Pericardium: a sac holding the heart;
o Peritoneum: the lining of the abdominal cavity; and
o Pleura: the outer lining surrounding the lungs and chest cavity.
Due to the special nature and functions of each of these organs the symptoms of mesothelioma affecting them can vary. Some of these symptoms are very rare where as others may be severe. Therefore, it is suggested to visit a doctor if any of the symptoms exist.
Furthermore, if mesothelioma is detected at an early stage the chances of curing it are high.
The following are mesothelioma symptoms categorized by type.
Pericardium Mesothelioma Symptoms:
o Irregular breathing patterns
o Chest pain
o Unusual heart beating
o Coughing
o Shortness of breath
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:
o Vomiting
o Weight Loss
o Abdominal pain
o Fever
o Bowel obstruction
o Hernia
o Swelling or mass accumulation in the abdomen
o Blood clots
o Nausea
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:
o Fever
o Pleural effusions (accumulation of fluid in the lung lining)
o Coughing up blood
o Pain in chest
o Excessive coughing
o Loss of appetite
o Weakness
o Paralysis
o Hoarseness
o Shortness of breath
o Back pain
o Weight loss
o Swelling
o Problems in swallowing
A pleural mesothelioma may result in lung cancer or pneumothorax but only in severe cases and on the other hand some patients might not exhibit any symptoms at all.
Other minor diseases have similar symptoms as mesothelioma but if identified soon enough these can help cure mesothelioma cancer at an early stage. You need to remember that the existence of mesothelioma can only be confirmed by a doctor and he does so by examining asbestos exposure history, medical reports, MRI and/or CT scan and in some cases a needle biopsy.
If you feel that you may have mesothelioma, you need to see your doctor or health professional as soon as possible. Any delay may hurt your chances of survival and making a full recovery. The sooner you go to your doctor and get checked out, the sooner the doctors can start to help you recover or feel more comfortable.
Mesothelioma is a cancer which affects the protective linings of internal organs. These linings include:
o Pericardium: a sac holding the heart;
o Peritoneum: the lining of the abdominal cavity; and
o Pleura: the outer lining surrounding the lungs and chest cavity.
Due to the special nature and functions of each of these organs the symptoms of mesothelioma affecting them can vary. Some of these symptoms are very rare where as others may be severe. Therefore, it is suggested to visit a doctor if any of the symptoms exist.
Furthermore, if mesothelioma is detected at an early stage the chances of curing it are high.
The following are mesothelioma symptoms categorized by type.
Pericardium Mesothelioma Symptoms:
o Irregular breathing patterns
o Chest pain
o Unusual heart beating
o Coughing
o Shortness of breath
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:
o Vomiting
o Weight Loss
o Abdominal pain
o Fever
o Bowel obstruction
o Hernia
o Swelling or mass accumulation in the abdomen
o Blood clots
o Nausea
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:
o Fever
o Pleural effusions (accumulation of fluid in the lung lining)
o Coughing up blood
o Pain in chest
o Excessive coughing
o Loss of appetite
o Weakness
o Paralysis
o Hoarseness
o Shortness of breath
o Back pain
o Weight loss
o Swelling
o Problems in swallowing
A pleural mesothelioma may result in lung cancer or pneumothorax but only in severe cases and on the other hand some patients might not exhibit any symptoms at all.
Other minor diseases have similar symptoms as mesothelioma but if identified soon enough these can help cure mesothelioma cancer at an early stage. You need to remember that the existence of mesothelioma can only be confirmed by a doctor and he does so by examining asbestos exposure history, medical reports, MRI and/or CT scan and in some cases a needle biopsy.
If you feel that you may have mesothelioma, you need to see your doctor or health professional as soon as possible. Any delay may hurt your chances of survival and making a full recovery. The sooner you go to your doctor and get checked out, the sooner the doctors can start to help you recover or feel more comfortable.
Is There A Mesothelioma Cure?
Let's see if we can determine whether or not there is a mesothelioma cure. In this day and age it can seem absurd that there are no cures for cancer let alone a mesothelioma cure. Mesothelioma is a cancer, and as such, there is no true "cure" for it yet. However, if the disease is caught early, various treatment options can not only extend a patient's life, but also their quality of life. While the traditional survival rate for those diagnosed with mesothelioma is often set at eight to 12 months, more recently, a five year survival rate of some has increased substantially. This goes to show that treatment and drugs to battle mesothelioma cancer has increased and improved dramatically in the last few years. This may be due to the fact that more is known about mesothelioma cancer now than it ever was before.
However, there is still much to be understood about this aggressive disease. While the common diagnosis for mesothelioma is that it is indeed a form of cancer, not all researchers are in agreement. So as of yet there are no mesothelioma cure that has been developed; however there are things that people can do to ease any symptoms that they have. Your doctor or health professional will be able to help ease the symptoms and make the last few years or months a lot easier.
Some people think that mesothelioma cancer is a viral infection that has turned malignant. Thus, their prognosis is that the asbestos fibers which cause the disease could possibly activate an already present common virus infection, and eventually cause a variety of clinical conditions for the patient. While many of these clinical conditions may appear to not be harmful, in benign pleural effusions researchers don't typically find what is known as a pleural cavity that is then full of asbestos needles. Consequently, researchers either aren't culturing for the right agent, or they need more time to conduct broader research about the true nature of Mesothelioma.
Finally, here are some known medical facts that are not particularly common about Mesothelioma cancer:
o It is extremely rare for the Serosal membranes to be malignant other than with Mesothelioma cancer.
o It is not asbestos dependent.
o It is not smoking related.
o It only really happens when there is evidence of pleurisy.
o The latency period is longer than any other known malignancy.
While these facts contain specific, medical, terminology which some may be unfamiliar with, it is important to present the terminology as it known; scientifically. While the personal diagnosis, or that of a loved one, with mesothelioma can already seem like a devastating occurrence, it is important for people to educate themselves more specifically about such terms. This will assist both the patient, and their loved ones, to better understand the disease they are battling, and to more effectively communicate with their physicians regarding mesothelioma.
However, there is still much to be understood about this aggressive disease. While the common diagnosis for mesothelioma is that it is indeed a form of cancer, not all researchers are in agreement. So as of yet there are no mesothelioma cure that has been developed; however there are things that people can do to ease any symptoms that they have. Your doctor or health professional will be able to help ease the symptoms and make the last few years or months a lot easier.
Some people think that mesothelioma cancer is a viral infection that has turned malignant. Thus, their prognosis is that the asbestos fibers which cause the disease could possibly activate an already present common virus infection, and eventually cause a variety of clinical conditions for the patient. While many of these clinical conditions may appear to not be harmful, in benign pleural effusions researchers don't typically find what is known as a pleural cavity that is then full of asbestos needles. Consequently, researchers either aren't culturing for the right agent, or they need more time to conduct broader research about the true nature of Mesothelioma.
Finally, here are some known medical facts that are not particularly common about Mesothelioma cancer:
o It is extremely rare for the Serosal membranes to be malignant other than with Mesothelioma cancer.
o It is not asbestos dependent.
o It is not smoking related.
o It only really happens when there is evidence of pleurisy.
o The latency period is longer than any other known malignancy.
While these facts contain specific, medical, terminology which some may be unfamiliar with, it is important to present the terminology as it known; scientifically. While the personal diagnosis, or that of a loved one, with mesothelioma can already seem like a devastating occurrence, it is important for people to educate themselves more specifically about such terms. This will assist both the patient, and their loved ones, to better understand the disease they are battling, and to more effectively communicate with their physicians regarding mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Lawyer
When you or a loved one receives a mesothelioma diagnosis, you should contact a mesothelioma attorney right away. Since the primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the damages and the medical bills that you will soon be receiving - or have already received. Here is some information that will help you to understand what mesothelioma is and why you should not procrastinate in calling your mesothelioma lawyer.
Asbestos has been known for many decades to produce harmful effects on those who breathed it. The problem, though, is that the major industries that used asbestos, as a whole did nothing to protect their employees. Even though steps could have been taken - they were not. This is definite negligence, and in a court of law, it is often enough to be able to win a mesothelioma lawsuit.
The industries that were the main users of asbestos are the building materials industry, the shipping industry, the railroad industry, and the automotive industry. It needs to be pointed out that those who were exposed in the shipbuilding industry include both the shipbuilding laborers and the Navy and Marine personnel that were assigned to those ships for months at a time. Very little was done to ensure the continued health of the employees or servicemen until the mid-70's. At that time, the industries began to be forced to provide protection for their employees. It was, however, too late for those already exposed.
Those people, who had already been exposed to the asbestos, would years later fall ill. No one really knew of mesothelioma cancer and everyone was about to find out. Mesothelioma is a cancer that lays low for a number of years. It isn't until years after the first exposure that the person would start to see symptoms of mesothelioma cancer appear.
Your mesothelioma lawyer will be able to talk you through what exactly is the process of taking the company or business to court for your exposure to the asbestos that has now caused mesothelioma cancer.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with any type of mesothelioma, you are entitled to be compensated. This also extends to family members who have contacted the disease through contaminated clothing. Though amounts awarded vary from one case to another, you could be looking at an amount with six or seven figures.
Types of Information Needed
You will need to document the following in order for a mesothelioma claim to have a chance of being successful.
- Work history.
- Work locations
- Brands and types of asbestos that the victim was exposed to.
- Where and when exposure occurred.
- Co-workers names and contact information.
Asbestos has been known for many decades to produce harmful effects on those who breathed it. The problem, though, is that the major industries that used asbestos, as a whole did nothing to protect their employees. Even though steps could have been taken - they were not. This is definite negligence, and in a court of law, it is often enough to be able to win a mesothelioma lawsuit.
The industries that were the main users of asbestos are the building materials industry, the shipping industry, the railroad industry, and the automotive industry. It needs to be pointed out that those who were exposed in the shipbuilding industry include both the shipbuilding laborers and the Navy and Marine personnel that were assigned to those ships for months at a time. Very little was done to ensure the continued health of the employees or servicemen until the mid-70's. At that time, the industries began to be forced to provide protection for their employees. It was, however, too late for those already exposed.
Those people, who had already been exposed to the asbestos, would years later fall ill. No one really knew of mesothelioma cancer and everyone was about to find out. Mesothelioma is a cancer that lays low for a number of years. It isn't until years after the first exposure that the person would start to see symptoms of mesothelioma cancer appear.
Your mesothelioma lawyer will be able to talk you through what exactly is the process of taking the company or business to court for your exposure to the asbestos that has now caused mesothelioma cancer.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with any type of mesothelioma, you are entitled to be compensated. This also extends to family members who have contacted the disease through contaminated clothing. Though amounts awarded vary from one case to another, you could be looking at an amount with six or seven figures.
Types of Information Needed
You will need to document the following in order for a mesothelioma claim to have a chance of being successful.
- Work history.
- Work locations
- Brands and types of asbestos that the victim was exposed to.
- Where and when exposure occurred.
- Co-workers names and contact information.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Are Mesothelioma Clinical Trials Safe?
If you are a cancer sufferer and you are not sure whether to take part in a clinical trial or not; it can be a very difficult and frustrating decision.
Basically clinical trials are studies based around people and how they react to certain medical treatments. The doctors will be making sure that any new mesothelioma treatment is totally safe for human use and is actually effective. These mesothelioma trials are vitally important to determining whether or not a treatment or a procedure can actually help sufferers or maybe even cure.
It can be difficult to determine whether or not to actually take part in any clinical trial as you nor the doctors know what is going to happen and how it's going to turn out; this is the whole point to the trials. If you already knew what was going to happen there would be no need for trials and the treatment would just be administered.
Many people do not bother paying any attention to clinical trials until the day they are diagnosed with something that is included in trials. There are instances where trials do go wrong and people suffer more; this is rare; the media do not report on good clinical trials only the negative ones. Of course this is par for course in certain clinical trials as that is what they are designed for; no one knows the outcome of the trials.
Thousands upon thousands of people are helped every year through mesothelioma clinical trials however, and millions more benefit from the successful outcomes to any clinical trial not just the mesothelioma clinical trials. That is why it is important that people do get involved in the medical trials, as without them there would not be any advances in science and in treatment. However, it is an extremely personal choice to make, and you should never feel pressured at any time to undertake a trial.
The decision is an extremely personal decision when it comes to clinical trials; talk it over with your friends and families and see if you can gain any support and help from them as well. You will need to think about your choices and always make sure you are 100% in whatever your decision may be! Your family and your friends will be a good point of comfort and care when you undertake the mesothelioma cancer treatment trials, so always keep them close and fully informed.
If you are considering taking part in a mesothelioma clinical trial then get as much information as you can about what it will entail, what may happen, any known dangers or side effects and the such like.
You need to speak to your doctor before embarking on any clinical trial. Find out as much as you can before starting any trial. You need to have all the information at your fingertips; that way you can be sure when you are making your decision
Basically clinical trials are studies based around people and how they react to certain medical treatments. The doctors will be making sure that any new mesothelioma treatment is totally safe for human use and is actually effective. These mesothelioma trials are vitally important to determining whether or not a treatment or a procedure can actually help sufferers or maybe even cure.
It can be difficult to determine whether or not to actually take part in any clinical trial as you nor the doctors know what is going to happen and how it's going to turn out; this is the whole point to the trials. If you already knew what was going to happen there would be no need for trials and the treatment would just be administered.
Many people do not bother paying any attention to clinical trials until the day they are diagnosed with something that is included in trials. There are instances where trials do go wrong and people suffer more; this is rare; the media do not report on good clinical trials only the negative ones. Of course this is par for course in certain clinical trials as that is what they are designed for; no one knows the outcome of the trials.
Thousands upon thousands of people are helped every year through mesothelioma clinical trials however, and millions more benefit from the successful outcomes to any clinical trial not just the mesothelioma clinical trials. That is why it is important that people do get involved in the medical trials, as without them there would not be any advances in science and in treatment. However, it is an extremely personal choice to make, and you should never feel pressured at any time to undertake a trial.
The decision is an extremely personal decision when it comes to clinical trials; talk it over with your friends and families and see if you can gain any support and help from them as well. You will need to think about your choices and always make sure you are 100% in whatever your decision may be! Your family and your friends will be a good point of comfort and care when you undertake the mesothelioma cancer treatment trials, so always keep them close and fully informed.
If you are considering taking part in a mesothelioma clinical trial then get as much information as you can about what it will entail, what may happen, any known dangers or side effects and the such like.
You need to speak to your doctor before embarking on any clinical trial. Find out as much as you can before starting any trial. You need to have all the information at your fingertips; that way you can be sure when you are making your decision
Looking at Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells of the body. These are the cells that make up the outer lining for the body's major organs, such as the heart, lungs and stomach. These linings are referred to as the mesothelium and this is how the cancer got its name.
The Peritoneum
The peritoneum is the tissue lining the abdomen. Its job is to protect the abdomens contents. It produces a fluid that acts as a lubricant so organs within the abdomen may move freely. Peritoneal mesothelioma is cancer of the tissue that lines the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma is rarer than pleural mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma
the pleura is the tissue that covers and lines the lungs. These are referred to by the medical community as pleural membranes. The pleura are fibrous membranes and the space between them is the pleural space. The pleural protect the lungs by producing a lubricant that fills the pleural space. This lubric
The Peritoneum
The peritoneum is the tissue lining the abdomen. Its job is to protect the abdomens contents. It produces a fluid that acts as a lubricant so organs within the abdomen may move freely. Peritoneal mesothelioma is cancer of the tissue that lines the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma is rarer than pleural mesothelioma.
Pleural Mesothelioma
the pleura is the tissue that covers and lines the lungs. These are referred to by the medical community as pleural membranes. The pleura are fibrous membranes and the space between them is the pleural space. The pleural protect the lungs by producing a lubricant that fills the pleural space. This lubric
Mesothelioma and Asbestos - A Glossary of Related Terms and Definitions
Understanding the terminology commonly associated with mesothelioma and asbestos while holding a conversation with your doctor or other specialist will help you to relate to what they're saying and make more informed decisions about how to proceed.
Below are some of the most common terms used when describing, diagnosing or treating mesothelioma.
1. Asbestos
A natural mineral that is commonly used in construction materials or similar products due to its high level of heat resistance and durability. It is a fibrous silicate mineral, and exposure to asbestos over an extended period of time can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis.
2. Asbestosis
A serious health condition in which there is scar tissue present in the lungs as a result of inhaling asbestos dust and fibers.
3. Mesothelioma
A rare, cancerous condition most often caused by exposure to asbestos. This is a malignant cancer tumor found in the mesothelium of the abdomen or lungs.
4. Mesothelium
Tissue which forms a lining around several organs such as the abdomen, and also the chest area. The fluid produced by this tissue helps to protect and mobilize organs.
5. Invasive cancer
A cancer that spreads from one point to another in the body.
6. Epidemiology
Statistics of diseases and their causes among a population.
7. Carcinoma
Tissue that is diagnosed malignant. This is normally a tumor.
8. Tremolite
A type of asbestos which has flexible fibers.
9. Serpentine Asbestos
A type of asbestos which has curly fibers that is of a tiered structure. The most commonly used form of asbestos in the U.S., called "Chrysotile", and is a type of serpentine asbestos.
10. Pneumoconiosis
Also known as fibrosis of the lungs, where the lungs have been scarred due to frequent inhalation of asbestos.
If you are up to date with the terms and the words when dealing with mesothelioma, it allows you to be better prepared when and if you have to deal with it. If you need to speak to a mesothelioma attorney or lawyer, you will be able to understand some of the terms they use when talking about your case.
Again if you have to see your doctor, you will be able to understand what they are talking about to a certain extent. Mesothelioma can be very complex and confusing for anyone. Throw in the emotions of being involved or at having mesothelioma and everything can become very confusing. This guide will hopefully help to clear up any confusion you may have.
Below are some of the most common terms used when describing, diagnosing or treating mesothelioma.
1. Asbestos
A natural mineral that is commonly used in construction materials or similar products due to its high level of heat resistance and durability. It is a fibrous silicate mineral, and exposure to asbestos over an extended period of time can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis.
2. Asbestosis
A serious health condition in which there is scar tissue present in the lungs as a result of inhaling asbestos dust and fibers.
3. Mesothelioma
A rare, cancerous condition most often caused by exposure to asbestos. This is a malignant cancer tumor found in the mesothelium of the abdomen or lungs.
4. Mesothelium
Tissue which forms a lining around several organs such as the abdomen, and also the chest area. The fluid produced by this tissue helps to protect and mobilize organs.
5. Invasive cancer
A cancer that spreads from one point to another in the body.
6. Epidemiology
Statistics of diseases and their causes among a population.
7. Carcinoma
Tissue that is diagnosed malignant. This is normally a tumor.
8. Tremolite
A type of asbestos which has flexible fibers.
9. Serpentine Asbestos
A type of asbestos which has curly fibers that is of a tiered structure. The most commonly used form of asbestos in the U.S., called "Chrysotile", and is a type of serpentine asbestos.
10. Pneumoconiosis
Also known as fibrosis of the lungs, where the lungs have been scarred due to frequent inhalation of asbestos.
If you are up to date with the terms and the words when dealing with mesothelioma, it allows you to be better prepared when and if you have to deal with it. If you need to speak to a mesothelioma attorney or lawyer, you will be able to understand some of the terms they use when talking about your case.
Again if you have to see your doctor, you will be able to understand what they are talking about to a certain extent. Mesothelioma can be very complex and confusing for anyone. Throw in the emotions of being involved or at having mesothelioma and everything can become very confusing. This guide will hopefully help to clear up any confusion you may have.
Finding the Right Mesothelioma Lawyers
You may have been recently diagnosed with the terrible and life shattering disease mesothelioma cancer. After you have spoken to your doctor and received your test results and your prognosis and diagnosis, there is another step to take that may change your life and your family's life forever. The next crucial step to take is that you hire a mesothelioma lawyer immediately. It may even be beneficial to speak to a mesothelioma lawyer before you get confirmation from your doctor. At least you will have the groundwork in place and the mesothelioma lawyer can start to find more information about when and where you were exposed to asbestos.
Most lawyers that specialize in mesothelioma work on a contingency basis. This means that there is no costly retainer fee and that the attorney works for a percentage of the settlement. If the mesothelioma lawyer does not manage to win you any compensation, he doesn't get paid. This is what is more commonly known as a no win, no fee court case. Always read the small print when accepting the help of a mesothelioma lawyer on a no win no fee basis. You may have to pay court fees if you are on the losing side. If this is the case, you may have to find court costs and lawyer costs for the other side. This is something that rules in your favor because an attorney that works on contingency will do the best possible job when presenting your case. Many companies have been set up especially to deal with mesothelioma cancer cases. This is simply because the cases are long and drawn out and can take years to resolve. This means you need someone who is not only qualified to handle your case, but someone who is also dedicated and genuinely caring for your cause.
Meeting with Prospective Mesothelioma Lawyers
When you consult with mesothelioma attorneys, describe your issues in depth, and then ask if they are able to take your case. If they agree, ask about fees and if they're willing to work on a contingency basis. You will need to provide your mesothelioma lawyer with lots of information about when and where you came into contact with asbestos. Who you were working for at the time, how long you were unknowingly or knowingly in contact with it and if any safety measures were put into place.
The Final Decision
You need to meet with at least 3 to 5 mesothelioma lawyers to make sure you are dealing with someone you can trust and someone that you like. When you've met with three to five mesothelioma attorneys, it is then time to make a decision based on what you have discovered speaking to all the mesothelioma lawyers. Use the notes you have made previously and then you need to ask yourself the following very important questions.
- Did the attorney seem genuinely interested in my case?
- Did he listen to me and respond appropriately?
- Did the attorney explain alternate courses of action if there were any?
Most lawyers that specialize in mesothelioma work on a contingency basis. This means that there is no costly retainer fee and that the attorney works for a percentage of the settlement. If the mesothelioma lawyer does not manage to win you any compensation, he doesn't get paid. This is what is more commonly known as a no win, no fee court case. Always read the small print when accepting the help of a mesothelioma lawyer on a no win no fee basis. You may have to pay court fees if you are on the losing side. If this is the case, you may have to find court costs and lawyer costs for the other side. This is something that rules in your favor because an attorney that works on contingency will do the best possible job when presenting your case. Many companies have been set up especially to deal with mesothelioma cancer cases. This is simply because the cases are long and drawn out and can take years to resolve. This means you need someone who is not only qualified to handle your case, but someone who is also dedicated and genuinely caring for your cause.
Meeting with Prospective Mesothelioma Lawyers
When you consult with mesothelioma attorneys, describe your issues in depth, and then ask if they are able to take your case. If they agree, ask about fees and if they're willing to work on a contingency basis. You will need to provide your mesothelioma lawyer with lots of information about when and where you came into contact with asbestos. Who you were working for at the time, how long you were unknowingly or knowingly in contact with it and if any safety measures were put into place.
The Final Decision
You need to meet with at least 3 to 5 mesothelioma lawyers to make sure you are dealing with someone you can trust and someone that you like. When you've met with three to five mesothelioma attorneys, it is then time to make a decision based on what you have discovered speaking to all the mesothelioma lawyers. Use the notes you have made previously and then you need to ask yourself the following very important questions.
- Did the attorney seem genuinely interested in my case?
- Did he listen to me and respond appropriately?
- Did the attorney explain alternate courses of action if there were any?
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Dealing With Your Emotions With Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma: a form of cancer that affects the protective linings of the lungs, the heart, or the abdominal organs, most often brought about by exposure to asbestos. It's bad enough just trying to pronounce it and figure out exactly what it is - but when you're told that you have it, the world seems to crumble around you. The normal life you've been leading is about to change dramatically, and you're told there isn't much you can do but sit back and let it happen. You'll have to come to terms with it yourself, and then help your family and friends to do the same. There will be appointments to keep, important matters to discuss with loved ones, treatment decisions to research. Due to all this, your daily routine will be vastly different. It seems like a lot to swallow all at once, and you may wonder if you can get through all that's expected of you in the coming months.
Since everyone reacts differently to shocking news, it's hard to tell exactly how you'll respond at first. You'll inevitably experience a range of emotions after your diagnosis, including:
Shock or disbelief
Mesothelioma is a disease that "lies in wait" for a very long time. Your exposure to carcinogenic asbestos fibers most likely occurred anywhere from twenty to fifty years ago, so you're likely to be completely unprepared for someone to tell you that it's caused you to develop cancer. You may doubt the diagnosis, especially if you don't feel bad physically. And it's very normal when you're told that you have a life-threatening illness for your brain to go into automatic "denial mode."
Anxiety and fear
Your diagnosis brings with it a whole host of things to be afraid of. People tend to fear the unknown, and this is a whole new experience that, up until this point, you know nothing about. You may fear suffering or pain, fear becoming a burden on loved ones, or whether you'll be able to tie up all your loose ends "just in case." You may question your own ability - and the ability of your family - to cope effectively with cancer and all that it brings.
Guilt
You may feel guilty, for one reason or another. Even though the Mesothelioma is by no means your fault, you may feel that you should have done something, somehow, to prevent it. Or that you should have known about it sooner. You might think of your family and all the pain that they'll feel because of your diagnosis, and feel personally responsible.
Depression
In situations like these, a person feels a lot of personal grief and self-pity, which can lead to immense sadness, even making you depressed. The uncertainty and precariousness of your situation can darken your vision of the future.
Anger
A certain amount of anger is definitely to be expected, and you may not even be able to pinpoint exactly why you're angry or who you're angry with. You might feel like lashing out at those around you, when really, it's not them you're mad at; it's only that you're trying to vent your frustrations.
So what can you do to cope with this barrage of feelings that's bombarding you? First, give yourself some time. You can't be expected to be diagnosed with a major life-changing illness and be fine with it, and accepting of it, just like that. It may take you a little while to absorb the news, the weight of it, to wrap your mind around the concept ... and that's fine. It's important during the first stages to take time for yourself - if you need to be alone, be alone for a while. You'll instinctively know what you need to do to start coping, so do it!
Since everyone reacts differently to shocking news, it's hard to tell exactly how you'll respond at first. You'll inevitably experience a range of emotions after your diagnosis, including:
Shock or disbelief
Mesothelioma is a disease that "lies in wait" for a very long time. Your exposure to carcinogenic asbestos fibers most likely occurred anywhere from twenty to fifty years ago, so you're likely to be completely unprepared for someone to tell you that it's caused you to develop cancer. You may doubt the diagnosis, especially if you don't feel bad physically. And it's very normal when you're told that you have a life-threatening illness for your brain to go into automatic "denial mode."
Anxiety and fear
Your diagnosis brings with it a whole host of things to be afraid of. People tend to fear the unknown, and this is a whole new experience that, up until this point, you know nothing about. You may fear suffering or pain, fear becoming a burden on loved ones, or whether you'll be able to tie up all your loose ends "just in case." You may question your own ability - and the ability of your family - to cope effectively with cancer and all that it brings.
Guilt
You may feel guilty, for one reason or another. Even though the Mesothelioma is by no means your fault, you may feel that you should have done something, somehow, to prevent it. Or that you should have known about it sooner. You might think of your family and all the pain that they'll feel because of your diagnosis, and feel personally responsible.
Depression
In situations like these, a person feels a lot of personal grief and self-pity, which can lead to immense sadness, even making you depressed. The uncertainty and precariousness of your situation can darken your vision of the future.
Anger
A certain amount of anger is definitely to be expected, and you may not even be able to pinpoint exactly why you're angry or who you're angry with. You might feel like lashing out at those around you, when really, it's not them you're mad at; it's only that you're trying to vent your frustrations.
So what can you do to cope with this barrage of feelings that's bombarding you? First, give yourself some time. You can't be expected to be diagnosed with a major life-changing illness and be fine with it, and accepting of it, just like that. It may take you a little while to absorb the news, the weight of it, to wrap your mind around the concept ... and that's fine. It's important during the first stages to take time for yourself - if you need to be alone, be alone for a while. You'll instinctively know what you need to do to start coping, so do it!
Basics of Mesothelioma
An abnormality in mesothelioma cells causing them to divide uncontrollably leads to mesothelioma. It can be either non-cancerous or cancerous. It is known as a malignant form of mesothelioma when it is cancerous and when it is non-cancerous it is known as the benign form. These cells end up invading nearby organs as they keep multiplying and usually cause and lot of damage to the patient. If the disease is cancerous, it can spread all over the body.
Exposure to asbestos is the most common reason behind this disease and even exposure to a few asbestos fibers can lead to it but most people don't realize that this exposure can lead to mesothelioma since there is a 20-40 year gap between the exposure to the substance and the inception of the disease.
People who work at places like shipyards, construction sites and renovation sites are most likely to contract mesothelioma due to constant exposure to asbestos and the asbestos fibers hanging onto their clothes can affect their families causing them to contract the disease as well. Prevention of mesothelioma requires a high level of caution and care.
Studies have proven that smokers succumb to mesothelioma much faster than non-smokers which can mean that a mixture of smoking and asbestos can be twice as dangerous. So if you have worked around asbestos whether you smoke or not, you must consult with a health professional as soon as possible. Mesothelioma is a very serious life threatening condition and it must receive adequate treatment quickly.
Breathing problems, shortness of breath and cough are some of the early symptoms of mesothelioma and since these symptoms are so generic many confuse it to be pneumonia or some other disease. To take action against this disease as soon as possible and cure it a vital diagnosis will be required which is vital in helping to cure this disease.
Quick diagnosis of mesothelioma is also vital for any court cases that you may have to be involved with. The mesothelioma court case may take a long time and a sufferer may not be alive to see the outcome. That is why it is imperative a quick diagnosis is sought.
If you have the chance to take your case to court, you will have to appoint a mesothelioma lawyer. You will need a specially trained lawyer to deal with these sorts of cases. As the court cases can be very long and drawn out, the mesothelioma lawyer needs to be aware of the pitfalls and what information to find.
Your mesothelioma lawyer will also be able to advise you on how long the court case is likely to take. As your health may deteriorate long before the court case is due, your family may have to take the case over. This can be emotionally draining and very upsetting for everyone involved, so your family will have to be prepared.
Exposure to asbestos is the most common reason behind this disease and even exposure to a few asbestos fibers can lead to it but most people don't realize that this exposure can lead to mesothelioma since there is a 20-40 year gap between the exposure to the substance and the inception of the disease.
People who work at places like shipyards, construction sites and renovation sites are most likely to contract mesothelioma due to constant exposure to asbestos and the asbestos fibers hanging onto their clothes can affect their families causing them to contract the disease as well. Prevention of mesothelioma requires a high level of caution and care.
Studies have proven that smokers succumb to mesothelioma much faster than non-smokers which can mean that a mixture of smoking and asbestos can be twice as dangerous. So if you have worked around asbestos whether you smoke or not, you must consult with a health professional as soon as possible. Mesothelioma is a very serious life threatening condition and it must receive adequate treatment quickly.
Breathing problems, shortness of breath and cough are some of the early symptoms of mesothelioma and since these symptoms are so generic many confuse it to be pneumonia or some other disease. To take action against this disease as soon as possible and cure it a vital diagnosis will be required which is vital in helping to cure this disease.
Quick diagnosis of mesothelioma is also vital for any court cases that you may have to be involved with. The mesothelioma court case may take a long time and a sufferer may not be alive to see the outcome. That is why it is imperative a quick diagnosis is sought.
If you have the chance to take your case to court, you will have to appoint a mesothelioma lawyer. You will need a specially trained lawyer to deal with these sorts of cases. As the court cases can be very long and drawn out, the mesothelioma lawyer needs to be aware of the pitfalls and what information to find.
Your mesothelioma lawyer will also be able to advise you on how long the court case is likely to take. As your health may deteriorate long before the court case is due, your family may have to take the case over. This can be emotionally draining and very upsetting for everyone involved, so your family will have to be prepared.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
