Hurricanes Increase Risk of Asbestos Exposure - Health

Individuals who have been affected by Hurricane Ike are still dealing with the after affects including exposure to asbestos fibers from destruction of homes caused by flooding.

According to the International Herald Tribune, following the hurricane, homes and roads were left with debris as well as a toxic sludge made of mud, human waste, lead, gasoline and asbestos in the wake of floodwaters, which have since receded. The potential for these fibers to dry and become airborne may be serious and could cause an increased risk of mesothelioma cancer among hurricane victims as well as nearby residents because of asbestos exposure.

What is Asbestos Exposure?

Asbestos fibers become airborne and cause the development of cancerous cells among victims. For years an exposed individual can live and behave as normal while the cancer remains dormant. Unfortunately, a mesothelioma victim has a slim survival rate the longer they have waited to diagnose their condition.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) described the following symptoms of mesothelioma:

* shortness of breath

* pain in the chest because of an accumulation of fluid

* weight loss

* abdominal pain

* bowel obstruction

* blood clotting abnormalities

* anemia

* fever

Diagnosing Mesothelioma Cancer

Unfortunately, mesothelioma cancer is considered such a rare condition, that it is often misdiagnosed for other similar diseases. The best way to diagnose mesothelioma cancer is to immediately speak with a medical professional upon any indication that exposure to asbestos has occurred.

It is important to set up a mesothelioma cancer screening if you feel you have been exposed to absestos. According to the England center for cancer research, Cancer Research UK, a number or all of the following procedures will likely be administered to narrow down the likelihood of a mesothelioma diagnosis:

* general physician examination

* blood tests

* chest X-ray or abdominal X-ray

* CT scan of chest/abdomen to determine swelling in body organs/lymph nodes

* biopsy of the pleura is done, also known as a thoracoscopy, in which a small incision is made the chest wall in which a video camera is inserted

* fluid drainage, also known as the thoracocentesis or abdoparacentesis), will help to relieve fluid from around the lugs or abdominal cavity for those with peritoneal mesothelioma

Uses for Asbestos

Asbestos has been classified as a human carcinogen because of the scarring of tissue and inflammation it can cause among its victims. Asbestos is a prevalent threat in America because of its extensive use and availability during the 20th century.

Asbestos was mined from the late 1800s up through World War II and was used for commercial use, according to the NCI:

* building and construction

* strengthening cement and plastics

* insulation

* roofing

* fireproofing

* sound absorption

* shipbuilding

* insulate boilers

* steam pipes

* hot water pipes

* vehicle brakeshoes

* vehicle clutch pads

* ceiling

* flooring

* paints/coatings

* tile

* adhesives

* plastics

* gardening materials

* talc-containing crayons

By the end of the 1970s after millions, potentially billions, of tons of asbestos had been used in products as well as homes, apartments, hospitals and elementary schools throughout America, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) finally banned the use of new asbestos in products and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for regulation and cleanup of asbestos.

Professional Mesothelioma Assistance

As millions of individuals remain potentially at risk for asbestos exposure across America it becomes important to be self-educated on the condition, its symptoms as well as diagnosing steps. Individuals who feel they may be suffering from mesothelioma cancer should contact not only a medical professional but also a mesothelioma attorney. Most legal consultations are free, which allows an individual to better understand the development of a mesothelioma case.

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How To Find a Reputable Mesothelioma Lawyer - Health

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the sac lining the chest (the pleura), the lining around the heart (the pericardium), or the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum). Studies have shown that people, who suffer from the disease mesothelioma, were exposed to an abundance of asbestos at one time or another in their life. Unfortunately, many people become exposed to asbestos unknowingly, usually as part of a job. Because of this, someone who has mesothelioma is often entitled to compensation. There are many mesothelioma lawyers, but the following easy tips can make it easier to find a mesothelioma lawyer.

1. Research all you can concerning mesothelioma. The more you understand the disease affecting you or a loved one, the better you will be able to judge a lawyer's expertise. A lawyer who understands many aspects about the disease is the ideal lawyer. If your lawyer understands your or your loved one's symptoms, and complications stemming from the disease, he or she will be better able to defend you. Unfortunately, some lawyers do not "do their homework" in regards to medical cases. This often leads to losing cases. A reputable lawyer will certainly know the ins and outs of the disease, so be sure to ask as many questions as you can think of.

2. Use phone books and Internet search engines to find lawyers. This may seem simple, but some people don't bother taking the time to look through many lawyers. Accepting the first lawyer that calls, or that one sees on TV is not a good idea. Searching in Google for the keyword "mesothelioma lawyer" will yield better results in the end than simply accepting whatever lawyer comes along. Giving yourself a variety of lawyers to consider will give you the best idea of who will be willing to work hardest for you, who is sincere, and who will most likely help you win your claim.

3. Read the fine print, and know your lawyer's case history. Once you are nearing your decision and narrowing down potential candidates, take your research to a new level. It is always a good idea to find out about a lawyer's case history. Additionally, it is advisable to know exactly what kind of deal the lawyer is seeking with you. Lawyers dealing with medical-related lawsuits usually do not get paid unless they win the settlement. Some lawyers request different percentages. Compare these requests and choose the lawyer that you would feel most comfortable with. Unfortunately, some lawyers might try to take advantage of an unknowing client. In order to protect your interests, and make sure you acquire the top-notch lawyer you deserve, do background research on lawyers before signing up.

4. Finally, don't be afraid to take advice. If a friend, or colleague suggests a lawyer, don't hesitate to check it out. If a friend refers you, he or she obviously has your best interests at heart, and so the lawyer is probably well qualified to take on your case. There are many groups out there for mesothelioma patients. If you or a loved one is in one of these groups, don't hesitate to ask for advice from others who have mesothelioma. Advice is often taken for granted, but it is one of the most valuable things a friend can give.

Mesothelioma is an awful disease, but there is compensation. This compensation can either be sought in a wrongful death suit, or while the patient is still living. It is advisable to find a lawyer as quickly as possible because there is often a statute of limitations on filing a lawsuit. The basic idea when searching for a mesothelioma lawyer is to be as educated as possible. Know what you want, and find a lawyer that is willing to help you in any way possible. Being well informed about your disease and potential lawyers will put you on the path to compensation.

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Five Common Symptoms of Mesothelioma - Health - Cancer

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects people who have been exposed to asbestos. The time period between the asbestos exposure and the onset of mesothelioma is typically very long. Some people do not develop any mesothelioma symptoms until 40 years or more after the asbestos exposure. This makes it very difficult to diagnose both mesothelioma and asbestosis (another condition caused by asbestos exposure).

Another factor that makes the mesothelioma diagnosis difficult is the variety of mesothelioma types. Mesothelioma develops in the lining of internal organs. Thus, it can affect the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart and testicles as well as spread to the surrounding tissues. Depending on the exact location of the mesothelioma cancer, the symptoms might vary. The following is a list of five common mesothelioma symptoms.

1. Pain in the Chest and/or AbdomenMesothelioma cancer can produce pain in various body parts. The pain becomes stronger as the cancer advances. Pleural mesothelioma (cancer in the lining of the lungs) often causes pain in the chest. In addition, the patient might have difficulty breathing. The shortness of breath might increase as the cancer advances and causes pleural effusion (retention of fluid in the lining of the lungs). Persistent abdominal pain might be a sign of peritoneal mesothelioma (cancer in the lining of the stomach).

2. CoughingMany patients with pleural mesothelioma experience a persistent, dry cough. As the cancer spreads, they might cough up blood. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately.

3. Unexplained Weight LossWhile most people welcome weight loss as a positive event, large and unexplained weight loss might be a sign of trouble. Such sudden weight loss might be a sign that the body is under extreme pressure produced by cancerous cells and is using internal fatty tissue reserves as a source of energy to fight the disease.

4. Persistent FatigueFatigue is typically a normal bodily response to physical and psychological exhaustion. However, if you feel fatigued all the time for no apparent reason, this might be a sign of cancer. You should see your physician if you feel fatigued even as you wake up after eight or nine hours of sleep.

5. Night Sweats and/or FeverAs mesothelioma spreads, it produces a growing number of cancerous cells, which begin to interfere with basic physiological functions. As a result, internal tissues might begin to swell, and various body cavities might become filled with fluid. The body responds to these occurrences by producing night sweats, which are often accompanied by a low-grade fever. If you experience these symptoms, see your doctor for a thorough medical evaluation.

Asbestosis and mesothelioma cancer are serious illnesses. If you receive a mesothelioma diagnosis, your physician will most likely recommend aggressive therapies to slow the spread of mesothelioma cancer and relieve symptoms such as pleural effusion. Sadly, even with the most advanced cancer therapies, the mesothelioma life expectancy remains less than one year. However, new treatments are being developed, offering mesothelioma patients hope of remission and a longer, more satisfying life.

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Symptoms of Mesothelioma Cancer - Health

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is almost caused by previous exposure to asbestos. It has three common types namely, pleural Mesothelioma peritoneal Mesothelioma, and pericardial Mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma occurs in many places within the body, but is usually near from the lungs and to the abdominal area.

Once a specialist diagnosed that you are positive on Mesothelioma, be conscious and try to ask the doctor what is your current condition.Below are the following symptoms of Mesothelioma you should keep in mind in case of emergency you know what to do:* Chest wall pain* Shortness of breath* Bowel obstruction* Fatigue or anemia* Pleural effusion (or fluid surrounding the lungs)* Wheezing, hoarseness or cough* Blood in the sputum* Weight loss* Blood cloth* Low blood sugar* Severe ascite (build up of fluid in the abdominal cavity)* Anemia

Symptoms of Mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years but prepare yourself if one day you will see the signs of the said disease.

Plan of Actions

As a Mesothelioma patient or victim, do something to help to minimize this type of disease.

1.Through check up. Inform your doctor about your medical situation and the sign and symptoms you have been facing. In fact it will be easy for the doctor to give enough information according to the disease.

2.By Telling your Medical History. It is based on the patient's experience and feeling for the doctor to provide an insight related to the past and present and give him hint about the causes, effect, importance and treatment.

3.Decision making. If the doctor asks your condition, follow their perception and suggestions base on your health.

If they offer medical operation, prepare yourself for financial factors as diagnosis and treatment of Mesothelioma cancer may include large amount on expenses.

Immediately see the doctor to describe and explained the detail, for the doctor to determine if Mesothelioma cancer really exists on your body and to make correct diagnosis.

Having a Mesothelioma cancer is a big problem because it can damage our lives no one else is excused it is either poor or rich.

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Identifying Signs or symptoms Of Mesothelioma - Health

Mesothelioma is defined as a benign or malignant tumor that types about the lining of the heart, lungs, or abdomen. There are a assortment of indicators triggered from having mesothelioma, such as shortness of breath to coughing up blood. The most prevalent cause for mesothelioma is prolonged publicity to asbestos. Hundreds of thousands of folks all over the earth have been subjected to really toxic amounts of asbestos. Figuring out the signs or symptoms of mesothelioma is 1 way to catch this lethal cancer early.The early signs of mesothelioma are commonly vague and non-precise . Some symptoms of mesothelioma are acquainted of the signs and symptoms of viral pneumonia. Wheezing, coughing, hoarseness, anemia, chest wall suffering, and exhaustion are such symptoms. Thus, numerous patients can be misdiagnosed, or search for no medical remedy at all.If someone believes they have symptoms of mesothelioma because of to prolonged asbestos publicity, there are many exams to detect the ailment. Diagnosis can be attained with imaging products, these kinds of as x-ray devices. A expansion in the chest cavity will display up in an x-ray, as well as a MRI scan. These assessments, nevertheless, can't determine no matter whether the tumor is mesothelioma or possibly yet another form of cancer.The most successful way to diagnosis a single with indicators of mesothelioma is what is known as PET, or positron emission tomography. A PET is a diagnostic imaging scan that is employed for the malignant detection of mesothelioma. It scans for microscopic particles that are emitted from radioactive substances. The PET scan is an actually progressively precious instrument in staging and typing the cancer.The mesothelium lines many organs in the cavities in the human system. Among these cavities is one particular termed the pleural. This cavity is wherever ones lungs are housed. The pleura is identified as a two layer mesothelium membrane which walls the lungs. The out side layer is attached to the walls of the chest, whilst the inside layer is snuggled all-around the lung organs.When a person is uncovered to asbestos, the fibers from the mineral that are inhaled make their voyage to the pleural membrane. Immediately after time, the cells get started to multiply beyond manage, resulting in pleural thickening.When signs and symptoms of mesothelioma are felt in patients, pleural thickening is normally the bring about. Pleural thickening with mesothelioma is the most standard sort. It makes up over seventy-5 percent of all instances. Scar tissue builds up close to the asbestos fibers that are trapped in the lungs resulting in symptoms this kind of as shortness of breath, chest pains, and even weight reduction. These signs and symptoms of mesothelioma are normally quite mild. By the time pleural thickening is uncovered, the cancer is generally quite advanced.Realizing the causes of pleural thickening and signs and symptoms of mesothelioma are very crucial to the early detection of this condition. When detected early, as with any disorder, there are numerous alternate techniques and medicine to enable ensure survival that or else would not be readily available if detected as well late.Treatment method and diagnosis of mesothelioma can be a really frightening knowledge for any individual, as nicely as the members of their household. Asking any queries and keeping the Mesothelioma oncologist current of healthcare adjustments will guarantee the finest probable treatment and care for affected person.

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Symptoms of Mesothelioma - Health - Cancer

Mesothelioma typically has a long latency period. In other words, many years may pass between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma. In fact,mesothelioma patients typically do not manifest symptoms until several decades after the initial exposure to asbestos. Because mesothelioma symptoms mimic those of less serious diseases, many patients who develop asbestos cancer are unaware of their potentially life-threatening disease.

People with a history of asbestos exposure should schedule an appointment with their physicians to screen for asbestos-related cancers. Because mesothelioma does not present early symptoms, individuals who were in contact with asbestos should inform their doctor of their exposure. Patients who have a history of asbestos exposure but are not exhibiting symptoms should receive lung function tests and chest x-rays to screen for any signs of asbestos-related diseases.

Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of the disease, develops in the lining of the lungs. Common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include the following: painful breathing; persistent dry or raspy cough; night sweats/fever; trouble swallowing; cough that produces blood; shortness of breath; unexplained weight loss; and chest or rib pain. Fatigue and lumps under the skin of the chest have also been reported in patients with pleural mesothelioma. Many pleural mesothelioma symptoms occur as a result of pleural thickening, which is caused by fluid buildup between membrane layers. Pleural thickening and fluid buildup can put pressure on the lungs, resulting in breathing difficulties.

The least common form of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma develops in the sac surrounding the heart. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include chest pain, heart palpitations, trouble breathing, fever and night sweats and fatigue. These symptoms are caused by the thickening of the pericardial membrane and fluid build up. Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare disease. Therefore, its list of symptoms is not as comprehensive as other forms of mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose and typically carries a poor prognosis.

Making up 30% of all mesothelioma cases, peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdomen. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include lumps under the skin of the abdomen, swelling or pain in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, nausea and vomiting and fatigue. Peritoneal mesothelioma can also cause a change in bowel habits, night sweats, fever and anemia. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma develop due to the thickening of the peritoneal membrane and fluid buildup between the membrane layers. This can put pressure on the abdomen and its organs, causing the patient to experience peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms.

Those experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma should see their doctors immediately. Although mesothelioma shares symptoms with a number of less serious illnesses, it's important to receive a firm diagnosis as soon as possible. Although the outlook for mesothelioma is poor, patients who receive early diagnoses typically have better prognoses.

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What is Symptoms of Mesothelioma - Health - Diseases and Conditions

What is Symptoms of Mesothelioma. About 15% of Mesothelioma cases are found in the early stages, before the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or elsewhere. The 5 year survival rate for people with Mesothelioma is 50% if there is no evidence of cancer in lymph nodes at the time of surgery. Unfortunately, in most cases, the spread of cancer has already occurred even if not detected by current medical tests.

When all Mesothelioma stages are considered together, the 5 year survival rate is only about 14%. Many early Mesothelioma are diagnosed incidentally - they are found as a result of tests that are done for an unrelated medical condition. Although Mesothelioma does not cause any symptoms until it has spread too far to be cured, symptoms do occur in some patients with early Mesothelioma .

Prompt attention to symptoms, leading to early diagnosis and treatment can result in a cure for some patients. For others, prompt attention to symptoms can improve the likelihood that treatment can extend their life and relieve many of their symptoms.

Common signs and symptoms of Mesothelioma include:A cough that does not go awayChest pain, often aggravated by deep breathingHoarsenessWeight loss and loss of appetiteBloody or rust-colored sputum (spit or phlegm)Shortness of breathFever without a known reasonRecurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumoniaNew onset of wheezingWhen Mesothelioma spreads to distant organs, it may cause:Bone painNeurologic changes (such as weakness or numbness of a limb, dizziness)Jaundice (yellow coloring of the skin and eyes)Masses near the surface of the body, due to cancer spreading to the skin or to lymph nodes (collection of immune system cells) in the neck or above the collarbone.A. Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma (mesothelioma cancer of the lung lining) include:pain in the lower back or the side of the chestshortness of breatha persistent coughdifficulty swallowing foodfever and sweatingfatigueweight loss.These symptoms are also common to many minor ailments and, therefore, may not cause a doctor to suspect mesothelioma.

Pleural Effusion-fluid in the LungsOne of the most common and specific symptoms of pleural mesothelioma is the accumulation of fluid between the lungs and chest cavity. This generally causes shortness of breath, and requires a doctor to drain the fluid, called fine-needle aspiration, to make breathing easier and relieve chest pain. This symptom is more unique to mesothelioma, making it more likely that you may have the disease.

B. Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms

Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma (abdominal mesothelioma - mesothelioma of the lining of the stomach) include:

stomach painnausea and vomitingweight loss.

Like pleural mesothelioma, these symptoms are also common to many minor ailments and, therefore, may not cause a doctor to suspect mesothelioma.

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