Mesothelioma - What Causes Mesothelioma Other Than Asbestos?

Asbestos exposure is only the one known mesothelioma-related cause. It affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) and abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) and heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Other risk factors include radiation therapy for other cancers, genetics, and minerals similar to asbestos like silica and erionite.

Asbestos fibers that are inhaled or swallowed can irritate healthy tissue for a long time before DNA damage to cells causes mesothelioma-related tumors. It could take up to 50 years for mesothelioma cancer symptoms to manifest.

Asbestos

Mesothelioma is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of microscopic fibers once commonly used in the construction industry. People who are exposed to asbestos the most often develop pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs (the pleura). However, a few people have developed mesothelioma following exposure to other substances, including silica, erionite, and zeolites.

The most frequent symptoms of mesothelioma are chest pain, shortness in breath, and the buildup of fluid on the lungs. Mesothelioma also can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss. There are many types of mesothelioma, including peritoneal the esophageal and pericardial.

Scientists do not know exactly the causes of mesothelioma, however they are certain that asbestos is a key factor. Exposure to asbestos is thought to cause mesothelioma lawyer through causing cells to grow abnormally and causing cancerous tumors. Asbestos can also cause genetic mutations that could increase the risk of developing mesothelioma.

There is no cure for mesothelioma. However, treatment can prolong life and improve quality of life. Patients should consult a doctor immediately if they experience troubling symptoms. They should tell their doctor about previous exposure to asbestos so they can be examined for mesothelioma.

People who are worried about the possibility of mesothelioma should be aware that they can contact mesothelioma lawyers to find out more about compensation options. Compensation can help those suffering from mesothelioma and their families pay for treatment and help make ends meet.

The ideal situation is that everyone avoids exposure to asbestos in the near future. Many older buildings, specifically ones built prior to 1999 still contain asbestos. Those who are in possession of asbestos-containing items should adhere to the proper safety guidelines including wearing protective clothing and breathing apparatus. In addition, those who suspect they have asbestos in their home should only have it inspected by an asbestos expert certified to ensure that the material isn't disturbed. This will reduce the risk of mesothelioma as well as other asbestos-related diseases. However it is crucial to remember that mesothelioma could still occur even with proper precautions.

Silica

Mesothelioma is a rare kind of cancer that affects the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of internal organs. It is caused primarily by exposure to asbestos, but can also be caused by exposures to other minerals, such as Erionite and silica. The most common form of mesothelioma affects the lung's lining (pleural mesothelioma), but it can also occur in the lining of the stomach (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the membrane that surrounds the testicles and the heart (pericardial and testicular mesothelioma). Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed after exposure to asbestos, with patients typically in their 50s or 60s.

The majority of patients who develop mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos in their workplaces and many for a long time. Asbestos is a class of naturally occurring minerals that make up long thin fibers that are extremely strong and withstand heat. It was used extensively throughout the 20th century for a wide variety of industrial, military and commercial applications. However, it was eliminated after scientists realized it was hazardous to health. When it is mined or cut and sanded, asbestos forms dust with tiny fibers that are inhaled. The fibers may get stuck in the lung and cause irritation, which leads to mesothelioma.

The symptoms of mesothelioma lawsuits are not usually visible until decades after asbestos exposure, making it difficult to identify. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing and coughing incessantly and chest pain, or a lump on the abdomen or chest. Mesothelioma can only be diagnosed with tests, and most patients are directed to a specialist following consulting their physician.

Asbestos has been eliminated however, it is still present in older homes and buildings. There are no mesothelioma cases that has been connected to other substances. However, people who have been exposed silica and other minerals may be at risk of developing the disease. Mesothelioma symptoms can be very like those of other illnesses, so if you are experiencing any of the above seek out your doctor immediately.

Erionite

Asbestos is the most commonly used mineral associated with mesothelioma. However, it's not the only one. Other minerals, like erionite which is a form of zeolite have been linked to the disease in certain cases. Erionite, just like asbestos can cause mesothelioma when it is inhaled or consumed.

In the 1970s, an unusually mesothelioma rate was recorded in a number of villages in Turkey where erionite is a rock that exists. In these villages, mesothelioma pleural accounted for up to 50 percent of deaths in some households.

A team comprised of environmental scientists, geologists, mesothelioma specialists, surgeons and physicians worked to find out the reason for this unusual lung cancer. They discovered that some families from the Turkish village had a gene mutation which made them susceptible to mesothelioma caused by erionite. The mutations were passed down from generation to generation. Other factors, such as smoking cigarettes or exposure to other asbestos-related substances, could also increase the risk of a person developing mesothelioma.

The mesothelioma caused by erionite is most likely a result from inhaling heavy gravel dust containing this material over a long time. This was the case in rural areas in which mining and road construction were taking place. Erionite exposure in Dunn County, North Dakota has been linked with mesothelioma and other respiratory illnesses.

mesothelioma lawsuit is a rare type of cancer, can cause symptoms like breathlessness (dyspnea) and pain in the chest (pleural effusion) and a loss of appetite, and weight growth. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that can cause symptoms like shortness of breath (dyspnea) chest pain, fluid on the lung (pleural effusion), and loss of appetite as well as weight loss.

Asbestos is known to be the primary mesothelioma-causing factor. However, researchers have discovered that those who have been exposed to other kinds of minerals like silica or Erionite can develop mesothelioma well. If you suffer from mesothelioma or have had heavy exposure to other types of asbestos, seek medical help as soon as you can. You can get expert mesothelioma treatment at Mayo Clinic. The team of health professionals includes mesothelioma specialists, lung transplant surgeons, and other experts. Together, they'll come up with a plan of treatment that is best for you.

Other Minerals

Asbestos is a natural mineral that has strong, flexible fibers. Asbestos is a substance that can be breathed in by those who live near asbestos when it is disturbed. The asbestos fibers enter the protective mesothelium in the lungs and the heart. The fibers trigger DNA mutations and tumors that develop over time. Asbestos exposure can occur in a non-work environment and also at work. Military personnel who transport or handle asbestos are particularly at risk as are civilians exposed to asbestos on the job. There are six types of asbestos, but amphibole and chrysotile are most prevalent. Each type has different types of fibers that resemble a splinter and can be absorbed into the body in various ways.

Asbestos-related illnesses can take many years to develop. The earliest symptoms usually include abdominal or respiratory issues. The condition can affect any part of the body, however it is most often affecting the lung (pleural mesothelioma) and abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or heart (pericardial mesothelioma). Mesothelioma can also affect testicles as well as the lining of the intestines.

Around 75% to mesothelioma can be traced to exposure to asbestos. Most of those affected were exposed to asbestos on the job However, some individuals have developed mesothelioma without an identifiable source. This is because asbestos has been utilized in a variety of products, exposing many people to the hazardous substance. Asbestos is also a risk when renovating or restoring old houses. This is especially true when environmental disasters like tornadoes, hurricanes or fires destroy structures with asbestos.

Anyone who suspects mesothelioma should schedule an appointment with their doctor as soon as they can. Early treatment improves mesothelioma outcomes, as doctors can identify the disease when it is the most treatable. The more doctors know about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and mesothelioma, the better they will be capable of protecting people.