Causes of Mesothelioma

There are studies that show the causes of mesothelioma are directly related to exposure to asbestos.  Other causes of mesothelioma may not have yet been determined, but to date no other reliable data exists that could place the blame for this deadly condition anywhere else.  On extremely rare occasions, mesothelioma has been found in patients that were not thought to have been exposed to asbestos, so further research needs to be done to understand any other potential causes of mesothelioma.

In the past, asbestos was used quite frequently in construction.  It was used in insulation material as well as other building material.  In fact, even cement used to contain asbestos.  Asbestos was used so frequently because it is a noncombustible fiber.  It has very thin fibers that when inhaled can reach even the smallest of canals in the lung.  These fibers get trapped and cannot be easily ejected from the body with a cough, which is normally how harmful materials are removed from the body.  The lung’s defense team will kick into action trying to break down the fibers or remove them, causing the tissue in the lungs to become inflamed.  These fibers can also become embedded in the lung’s lining that after many years can develop into a serious lung disease.  The fibers can also enter the digestive tract, causing problems with the stomach or abdomen. 

When these fibers remain in the body, whether in the stomach or lung, a person will begin to experience various mesothelioma symptoms.  These symptoms can include persistent coughing, chest pain, trouble swallowing, abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing.  Mesothelioma does not usually show its existence until years after the initial exposure to asbestos. 

Once diagnosed with mesothelioma, a patient has treatment options to take care of the pain and to extend their life.  There is no cure for mesothelioma.  There are, however, many foundations whose only mission is to find a cure.  Until that time, someone with mesothelioma can receive chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery.  Many tests will need to be performed before determining the best treatment plan.  Work with the oncologist to understand what your treatment options are.

You will also need to consult with an attorney.  The cause of mesothelioma, according to current data, is almost exclusively known to be exposure to asbestos.  Other causes of mesothelioma are yet to be determined, but any other cause of this disease would be extremely rare in nature.  You need to talk to an attorney with experience in these types of cases to learn and understand what your rights are.  You may be entitled to rights enforcement that will help you handle the monetary aspects of dealing with this debilitating and progressive disease.  However, you only have a certain amount of time to bring a claim, so do not wait – contact an attorney today.

 

 

 

Mesothelioma Information