Informative articles on mesothelioma cancer: Causes, treatment options, diagnosis, symptoms, lawsuit, litigation, lawyers, attorneys, etc.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Mesothelioma Law - Helping the Victims
Appointing The Best Mesothelioma Attorney
Getting a lawyer well versed with mesothelioma law is important for a successful claim. While choosing a mesothelioma lawyer look into a few aspects such as:
• Experience- The attorney should be an expert in mesothelioma law. He should be able to understand the complexities of the case. You must ask about the cases handled by him or her. The success rate in such cases should also govern your decision of hiring a mesothelioma lawyer. An asbestos lawyer should also be able to work as a detective. He should be able to find specific evidence against the defaulting company.
• Cost- Consider your budget before hiring a mesothelioma lawyer. The best lawyers come at a price. You can however cut on the costs by doing minor works like copying, picking and dropping documents yourself. Some lawyers also offer contingency services. They take a percentage of the compensation money. The best part about asbestos lawyers is that they do not charge anything till you get the claim.
You can also look through the internet to search for an online mesothelioma attorney. Various mesothelioma law firms are also available online for you to choose from.
Why Is It Important To Hire A Lawyer Having An Expertise In Mesothelioma Law?
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos dust or particles. Usually this rare cancer occurs in those persons working in mines, factories and construction sites. Since this disease takes years to develop, the employee may get retired by then. Thus it is important to hire a good asbestos lawyer to get compensation. A skilled mesothelioma lawyer will help you by:
• Using your employment and tax records as evidence to prove the exposure to asbestos.
• Giving your information about your legal rights.
• Helping you to know if you can ask for any compensation.
• Working on various different aspects of the case to help you get a successful claim.
• Explaining to you in detail how he/ she plans to present your case and will give you an honest opinion about the case.
Since mesothelioma is a rare cancer, a special lawyer is recommended. A lawyer experienced in mesothelioma law can help you through such cases. Mesothelioma Trial Attorney represents clients diagnosed with mesothelioma and helps them claim rightful compensation from negligent employers. An Online Mesothelioma Attorney can be consulted online to know the lawsuits governing compensation claims.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Jhon
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Saturday, November 28, 2009
Navy Mesothelioma - A Vocational Hazard
Asbestos, due to its sturdy nature and its fire resistant properties was regularly and heavily used in ships and in shipyards making navy personnel get a high exposure to asbestos. The poor ventilation in ships added to the increased contribution to causing a high incidence of mesothelioma among navy personnel and in close members of their families.
Mesothelioma is a highly debilitating and deadly disease that occurs a long time after asbestos exposure. It takes about almost 20 years or so for the symptoms to occur initially and might take a few more decades to become fully blown. By the time the symptoms progress and the disease can be diagnosed, there is usually not much that can be done to prevent further progress of the condition and will eventually lead to death.
Navy mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose as the condition. The exposure to asbestos is one thing in the previous history that will usually help point in the right direction. Navy mesothelioma is often diagnosed using the present signs and symptoms that are seen and with observing the CT scan findings.
The treatment options for mesothelioma is often limited and is also dependent on the extent of the condition, the age of the person and his general health condition. Radiation therapy is a treatment option wherein high energy radiation (x-rays) are used to try and regress the tumor and kill the cancerous cells. Another treatment option is to give chemotherapy wherein a drug combination is used to treat the navy mesothelioma and to prevent further spread of the condition.
People suffering from mesothelioma are also resorting to taking legal action by suing companies that have been manufacturing asbestos and resorting to their use without warning the public about the hazards of its use. But, people with navy mesothelioma are in a fix as they have limited abilities to seek legal action. However, they too are now getting legal help and getting benefits that will help them in getting proper treatment for this debilitating condition that has no total cure.
Want to learn more about Mesothelioma? Visit this awesome mesothelioma page.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Raven
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Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Mesothelioma Settlement Facts
This is why the settlement amounts run into millions. When you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are primarily two ways in which you will be able to proceed. You can either file for a lawsuit or opt for a mesothelioma settlement. If you are dealing with large multinational corporations, then they would always recommend opting for the mesothelioma settlement. This is because they value their business and reputation is an important matter in business. If a firm looses that inherent character, then many important business deals that are about to materialize might be canceled.
If the party prefers for mesothelioma settlement, then no one will know about the entire circumstance. This is because the settlement discussions are held in closed rooms. The firm will be willing to provide compensation or might agree to take care of all the medical expenses that will be incurred. The importance of the situation must never be underestimated. There are firms and lawyers who are involved with mesothelioma settlements. Your first priority must be to find the best lawyer in the city and proceed with them to settle the scores. Do not worry; the niche is filled with many eminent personalities, hence, you might never feel at loss when they are working on your case.
These settlements are largely governed by the laws that are in existence on the particular state. In other words, the lawyer must be proficient with the laws laid out in the particular state for the paradigm. Do not expect an easy route to the mesothelioma settlement. Every detail that is being asked by the attorney must be presented to him at the appropriate times. The attorney will require time to study the case and reach conclusive factors that will determine the settlement amounts. Some of the environmental rules might not be in existence during those times.
Some companies have known to wriggle out of lawsuits and settlements by stating such facts. The attorney must be adept at handling these situations. The time taken to grant the settlement amount is also an important factor. The patient must pay for his treatment; else, the authorities will stop it. Leaving the treatment halfway will lead to serious consequences. Whether the victim used to work with asbestos, or whether he was subjected to secondary currents of microscopic air currents is also an important issue that will be a deciding factor for the mesothelioma settlement.
To find out more on Asbestos Cancer Mesothelioma or Mesothelioma Settlements, simply click on the links.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yachi_Verma
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Friday, September 11, 2009
Common Mesothelioma Terminology
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is often associated with exposure to asbestos fibers in the air. The mere name Mesothelioma should be an indication that there are many phrases in this area that go beyond basic English. In this article, we will shed some light on these terms.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare, but vicious form of cancer. It is found in the lining that runs through the chest and abdomen area of the body. This lining creates a lubricated surface between organs such as the heart and lungs. Mesothelioma is a cancerous growth within the lining.
Biomarker
Blood tests are often used as a diagnostic tool when evaluating whether a patient has cancer. If certain substances appear, called biomarkers, then the presence of cancer can be inferred. Any doctor giving you a blood test looking for biomarkers of Mesothelioma should be severely questioned. Unlike other cancers, Mesothelioma has no biomarkers.
Thoracoscopy
This term is a mouthful, but refers to a very important diagnostic test when Mesothelioma is being considered. The test involves the insertion of a thin lighted tube, the Thoracoscopy, into the chest area. The physician can then move the tube around to look at the condition of the organs and the lining in the chest and abdomen area. This is often how tumors and abnormal growths are identified.
Latency
Mesothelioma is often caused by exposure to asbestos. The problem with the cancer is it has a long latency period. Latency simply refers to the time it takes from the asbestos exposure to the development of cancer. With Mesothelioma, the latency period can be 40 years or more.
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy
This phrase refers to a very aggressive surgical procedure undertaken when patients are well along with Mesothelioma. The surgery involves the removal of cancerous areas including, but not limited to, an entire lung, the membrane covering the heart, parts of the diaphragm and even part of the lining of the chest.
Obviously, the above represents a small sampling of the terminology you will run into in the field of Mesothelioma. Should you or someone close to you be diagnosed with this cancer, take the time to learn the terminology in the field. It will make your treatment decisions clearer.
Thomas Ajava writes for AsbestosAttorneysSanDiego.com - where you can find the best asbestos attorneys in San Diego, California.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Ajava
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Monday, August 17, 2009
Mesothelioma - What Tests Are Used to Diagnose It?
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is closely associated with asbestos exposure. It can take up to 40 years from the time of exposure for the cancer to manifest. Given this long period, what tests are used to diagnose it?
A common test used in cancer situations is a blood test. Blood is examined for something known as biomarkers. Certain biomarkers are indicative of certain types of cancer. For instance, CA 15-3 is a biomarker that indicates breast cancer in women. Unfortunately, there is no known biomarker at this point in time for Mesothelioma. In fact, blood tests do not provide any information to a physician regarding whether a patient has this form of cancer.
A chest x-ray is really the first line of attack against Mesothelioma when it comes to diagnostic tests. These x-rays are not particularly sensitive, but they present a global look at the chest area. This means the radiologist and physician can identify tumors, scaring and areas of fluid buildup. All are potentially problematic, particularly tumors which can be benign or can metastasize and spread.
Assuming the doctor sees something of interest or concern, he or she may next order a CAT scan. CAT stands for computerized axial tomography and essentially means a three dimensional view of the area in question. A CAT scan can better define the shape, size and characteristics of a mass. That being said, such a scan cannot tell the doctor if the mass is Mesothelioma or not. They can, however, be very helpful in determining if the problem is in an early or late stage.
MRIs are used in many medical practices as diagnostic tools. The trend in Mesothelioma cases is to forgo MRIs for PET scans. A PET scan is a test that shows the usage of glucose. Cancerous tumors, particularly Mesothelioma, tend to use much more glucose than health material. A PET scan can reveal this and helps get to the heart of the problem, to wit, do you have cancer or not.
It is important to understand that none of these diagnostic tools will absolutely tell you and your doctor if Mesothelioma exists. They will simply narrow down the possibilities. Ultimately, any mass is going to have to be biopsied. This involves the actual removal of some of the cells of the mass so that they can be looked at under a microscope. Only then will you know one way or another.
Thomas Ajava writes about asbestos health issues for AsbestosHealthIssues.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Ajava
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Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Mesothelioma - Most Commonly Asked Questions
Mesothelioma is an uncommon cancer that affects primarily the mesothelium which is a protective sac covering most of the body's internal organs. Exposure to asbestos particles at the place of work has been strongly linked to the development of mesothelioma in most of the victims.
Some of the most frequently asked questions on mesothelioma are:
1- Is there any ongoing research to discover new treatments for mesothelioma?
Yes, there are new treatments that are being studied. The National Cancer Institute {NCI} is sponsoring clinical trials {research with people} which are designed to find new modes of treatment and also to discover better ways of using currently used treatments.
Most of these treatments are still undergoing clinical trials by doctors to find out whether the treatments are safe for patients and whether they are effective against the disease before they can be recommended for general use.
Mesothelioma victims can offer themselves for participation in these clinical trials as a treatment option. Information about clinical trials is available from the Cancer Information Service{CIS} at 1-800-4-Cancer.
2- How can Mesothelioma be treated?
The treatment of mesothelioma depends on, the location of the cancer,stage of the disease, and patients age and general health.
Treatment options include
a} Chemotherapy,
b} Radiotherapy,
c} Surgery.
These forms of treatment are sometimes combined.
- Chemotherapy: This involves the use of anticancer drugs to selectively destroy and kill the cancer cells in the body. Most of the anticancer drugs are administered intravenously. Ongoing research into possibility of direct administration of anticancer drugs into the chest or abdomen is currently being studied.
- Radiotherapy: This involves the use of high energy rays {radiation} to kill the cancer cells and debulk {shrink} tumors. The radiation is directed only at the affected area of the body to kill the cancer cells.
Radiation can be from an external machine placed outside the body {external radiation},or it could be form an internal source where the material releasing the radiation is placed inside the area of the body affected by cancer cells. It is placed with the use of thin plastic tubes.
- Surgery: This is a very common mode of treatment in treating mesothelioma. The surgeon may remove part of the lining of the chest and abdomen and some of the surrounding tissue. Sometimes an operation called pneumonectomy is done during which a whole lung is removed. Other forms of surgery involves the removal of part of the diaphragm, this is the muscular sheet separating the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.
For more important questions on mesothelioma,you can visit our website.
Bello Kamorudeen is an health worker and he likes to write health related articles.To know more about the commonly asked questions in mesothelioma, visit http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bello_Kamorudeen
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Friday, May 15, 2009
Mesothelioma Alternative Therapy - What Are Your Options?
Quite a number of patients afflicted with asbestos related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma now-a days use different types of complimentary and alternative therapies in addition to conventional therapies like surgery and drugs.
These alternative therapies are used by patients coping with asbestos related disease as a form of pain management, to improve general health, and also to provide symptomatic relief.
Although these treatments do not offer a cure, they certainly help you to live more comfortable lives by providing relief from pain and stress.
The most commonly used alternative therapies include the following:
1}Acupuncture
This is one of the commonest forms of available alternative therapies today, and there are a lot of insurance companies offering coverage for this type of treatment. Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely fine needles into pressure points at clearly defined locations in the skin to improve the balance and flow of factors called the Yin, Yang, Qi and Blood in traditional Chinese medicine.
This form of treatment provides relief from chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety and stress and it is one of the most commonly used alternative medicines in the treatment of asbestos related diseases.
2}Aromatherapy
This form of alternative therapy involves the use of fragrances to improve physical and psychological well being. The fragrances are applied in liquids called essential oils, which are distilled and highly concentrated plant based oils. Aromatherapists use these fragrances combined in the oils to provide pain relief and to improve the general well being of the patient.
Aromatherapy is often combined with massage , you receive a massage with carrier oils that have been mixed with small amounts of essential oil fragrances.
3}Massage
Massage therapy has been shown to provide a number of important health benefits. It improves blood and lymphatic flow and it is used to improve blood circulation. It also improves muscle tension.
Massage also stimulates nervous and digestive systems, relieve chronic pain and improve skin function. Many patients find this type of therapy useful in reducing anxiety and stress as well as reducing chronic pain.
4}Meditation
Meditation is a well known way of relieving stress, anxiety and depression. Meditation is now also used to manage pain and other symptoms of diseases. Many cancer patients add meditation to their treatment schedules to help to reduce pain, stress and anxiety. Certain studies have shown that meditation may be able to reduce tumor growth and improve your prognosis.
5} Supplements
Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids. Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are all needed by the body to carry out essential life functions, and supplements can help provide necessary chemicals when diet alone cannot. Many herbs can help treat diseases and conditions, as well as provide symptomatic relief. For example, flaxseed, ginseng, and garlic are all known to reduce blood pressure.
When it comes to supplements, it's very important to let your physician know the kind of supplements you are taking, as they can affect how well your prescription medications work. Some supplements can even have dangerous interactive effects when taken in conjunction with certain prescription medications.
6} TENS Therapy
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation - commonly known as TENS therapy - is somewhat similar to acupuncture, in that this treatment stimulates certain defined body locations. However, while acupuncture uses fine needles, TENS therapy stimulates body points with the use of electrodes that deliver very mild electrical shocks.
Unlike many other types of complementary and alternative therapy, TENS has actually been approved by the FDA. While this doesn't automatically mean that TENS can provide a cure when it is used, it does mean that the treatment has been determined to be safe according to FDA regulations, and also means that TENS therapy is covered by insurance.
7} Yoga
The origins of yoga lie in India, where this ancient art is practiced more for spiritual reasons than for health-related reasons. Outside of India, yoga has become a popular form of exercise that is physically and psychologically calming and strengthening. Learning simple yoga techniques can help improve general health by toning and strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and improving general health and one's state of mind.
8} Pet Therapy
Also known as animal-assisted therapy or animal-assisted activities, this type of therapy aims to improve the general health and well-being of patients by allowing them to interact with a variety of animals. The wonderful effects of animal interaction has long been known - the simple act of stroking a cat or dog can improve the mood, lift the spirits, and even provide some physical benefits (such as the temporary lowering of blood pressure). Pet therapy techniques can be used for a wide variety of medical conditions. For example, a physical therapist working with a person recovering from a stroke might bring a dog to a therapy session and have the patient brush the dog to help improve their motor skills.
Bello Kamorudeen is an health worker and author of several mesothelioma articles. For more comprehensive information on mesothelioma visit http://www.mesotheliomacorner.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bello_Kamorudeen
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Monday, April 13, 2009
New Potentially Successful Mesothelioma Treatment Offered at German Facility
Copyright (c) 2009 Katie Kelley
A German clinic recently began offering a new treatment for mesothelioma cancer patients known as chemoembolization. The treatment has been successful in only one patient -- a woman who developed mesothelioma after hugging her father when he returned home from working with asbestos fibers, which is linked to the development of the condition.
The woman's cancer has since gone into remission with her tumor having been reduced by more than half, according to BBC news reports.
The method of chemoembolization uses chemotherapy drugs delivered into the "site of a cancer tumor" and "since the chemotherapy drugs are delivered into the tumor, stronger doses of the drugs may be used," according to research from the Roswell Park Cancer Institute. For mesothelioma cancer patients, a catheter into the lungs may potentially be used to deliver the drugs to the cancer site. Because of the success of the treatment, research is continuing, according to news reports.
Developing Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma occurs when mesothelioma of the chest develops. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) recently reported that "the pleura is the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity." According to NCI, mesothelioma occurs once cells within the lining of the lungs, known as the mesothelium begin to metastasize. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reported the following as symptoms of pleural mesothelioma:
* pain in the side of the chest
* pain in the lower back
* trouble swallowing
* cough
* fever
* sweating
* fatigue
* weight loss
* hoarseness
* coughing up blood
* swelling in the face, arms
* muscle weakness
* sensory loss
Often symptoms occur within two to three months prior to an initial diagnosis, according to the ACS. The symptoms of early mesothelioma are often unrecognizable as they remain dormant for years and, frequently, decades.
A number of tests are in existence to determine if a patient has lung cancer and if it is of mesothelioma type or pleural mesothelioma. Additionally, there are blood tests, fluid and tissue as well as imaging tests, which can determine a mesothelioma diagnosis, according to the ACS; they are as follows:
* chest x-rays
* computed tomography scan
* positron emission tomography scan
* magnetic resonance imaging scan
* osteopontin protein blood tests
* thoracoscopy
* tissue biopsy
* laparoscopy
* thoracotomy
* laparotomy
* bronchoscopy
* mediastinoscopy
* immunohistochemistry
* DNA microarray analysis
What to Do Following a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Once a mesothelioma diagnosis has occurred, there are several actions that can be taken to potentially treat the deadly condition. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often untreatable. The NCI sponsors clinical trials, which can assist individuals with their mesothelioma diagnosis by offering potentially new mesothelioma treatments that can be administered and studied.
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For the latest treatments and news on mesothelioma, visit http://mesothelioma.legalview.com or http://www.LegalView.com/ . Readers will be able to obtain useful legal information here, which ranges from obtaining a auto accident attorney to the learning of the latest truck accident jury verdicts.
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Monday, April 6, 2009
Walls Containing Asbestos Can Be Harmless...
If left undisturbed but if you work on it such as drilling holes like what 53 year old Richard Pullman's job requires, it can be dangerous to your health. Exposure to these fibers can lead to asbestosis, mesothelioma or other lung related diseases.
Read more of the story here.
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Sunday, April 5, 2009
Excellent tips to prevent Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer, which distresses the tissues lining the body’s organs, in addition to the spaces in between them. This is actually one of the most problematic kinds of cancer, as symptoms do not usually seem until the virus reaches higher stages. The most excellent way to prevent mesothelioma development is to avoid exposure to asbestos. In fact, this is the best way to treat mesothelioma as well.
The basic cause of mesothelioma is by exposure to asbestos, it is a mineral that is used in several products, which we come across in our daily life. During late 1970s and 1980s, the usage of asbestos was drastically cut back by government regulation itself. Asbestos was used widely way back for an assortment of purposes such as insulation and mining, and contact to it is the number-one most important cause of developing mesothelioma. It does not prevalent in the United States, but there are yet loads of areas where it might be present, counting old apartment buildings and other predestined structures built before 1989. It also continues to appear in many products and tools used everyday and if you are wondering how to stop mesothelioma, then avoiding or least usage of asbestos at work, home and public places could be the greatest way.
For the present day, you can ask a specialist to come to your house, work place or anywhere you propose to spend a greater part of your time to make sure that there is no asbestos available. However, make sure that you do not try to take away the asbestos yourself, but alternatively hire somebody who is capable and well trained in its exclusion. Do not reside with somebody who works close to asbestos. The filaments of asbestos could be moved by means of clothing and skin, making it extremely easy to extend to other people as well. Even a few lost fibers are at times sufficient to source mesothelioma.
Understand that people above the age of 65 are more probable to grow mesothelioma, so make sure to get regular medical check ups to keep labels on your health once you move toward and bypass that age. Your own body has had much more point to build up contact to asbestos. If you or your loved one is passing through from mesothelioma side effects, it is very important that you look for instant medical notice at the first sign of indications like chest pains, smallness of breath, continues coughs, heavy weight loss, and more. Early analysis and action for mesothelioma is the superlative type of prevention and could produce the most positive result of the disease.
Article Source: http://www.articlemotron.com
Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer, which distresses the tissues lining the body’s organs, in addition to the spaces in between them.
Jackson is a Expert author for Mesothelioma Symptoms and Mesothelioma Factors . He has written many articles likeMesothelioma cancer. For more information visit our site http://www.emedinfo.com/. Contact him at emedarticle@gmail.com
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Thursday, April 2, 2009
Pericardial Mesothelioma - Cancer of the Heart Lining
Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the pericardium - the lining of tissue around the heart. It is the rarest form of mesothelioma, making up less than ten percent of mesothelioma cases. Like all forms of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma has been linked to asbestos exposure.
Many people believe that mesothelioma is a cancer that only affects the lungs. In fact, mesothelioma is cancer of the serous membranes, which line the three organ cavities in the center of the body. Their function is to secrete fluids to cushion and lubricate the organs within those cavities.
The pleura encases the lungs in the chest cavity, and the lubrication provided by the pleural mesothelium also helps in breathing. The peritoneal cavity contains the stomach and other abdominal organs, and is lined by the peritoneum. The pericardial cavity contains the heart, and the serous membrane that protects and surrounds it is known as the pericardium.
What Is Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Cancer is generally defined by the organ or area of the body in which it originates. Thus cancer that originates in the pericardial mesothelium is called pericardial mesothelioma.
No one is quite certain why pericardial mesothelioma is the most rare of the three known types, but some doctors have suggested that it has to do with the way that asbestos fibers work their way into the body.
Since most asbestos fibers are inhaled, it is expected that the highest percentage of mesothelioma cases would involve the pleural cavities. Asbestos fibers may make their way into the stomach and abdominal lining when phlegm and mucous containing asbestos fibers is swallowed.
Since there is no direct pathway from outside the body to the pericardium, some doctors suggest that the tiny asbestos particles literally work their way from the lungs through the pleura to invade the pericardial mesothelium.
Others theorize that the smaller asbestos fibers are carried out of the lungs by the blood, and become lodged in the heart lining as the blood is pumped through the heart. In any case, once the asbestos fibers become lodged in the serous tissue surrounding the heart, they irritate the body's immune system and the chronic inflammation may cause the growth of cancerous tumors similar to those seen in pleural mesothelioma. The tumors may grow around the heart, constricting its movement and interfering with its functioning.
The Causes of Pericardial Mesothelioma
Because of the extreme rarity of this cancer, making a definitive link to any cause is difficult. There are less than two hundred cases of pericardial mesothelioma diagnosed per year, about ten percent of all mesothelioma cases.
Pericardial mesothelioma does seem to be strongly linked to asbestos exposure, as are the other forms of mesothelioma, though the connection is more difficult to establish because of the very small number of cases diagnosed and confirmed.
The Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
As the cancerous tumors grow and spread, the pericardial tissue expands and fluid accumulates around the heart. This can constrict the heart in its functioning and lead to chest pain and irregular heartbeat.
In most cases, pericardial mesothelioma is only discovered when it has advanced far enough to cause these physical symptoms. Occasionally, someone with pericardial mesothelioma may complain of other heart-related symptoms like shortness of breath and coughing.
Treatment for Pericardial Mesothelioma
Because the symptoms often do not become obvious until the cancer has reached the later stages of the disease, the treatment options are limited. The most common treatments recommended for this condition are surgery and radiation therapy, but the purpose is palliative (to relieve symptoms) rather than to remove or cure the cancer.
The prognosis for patients diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma is extremely poor, since the cancer is often so far advanced when it is discovered. Often, the life expectancy after diagnosis is only a couple of months.
Your Legal Rights
Because mesothelioma is linked to asbestos exposure, if you or a loved one have been diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, you may have a legal right to compensation for your suffering and loss, as well as assistance with your medical expenses.
Companies who knowingly exposed their employees and the public to the dangers of asbestos have been held accountable for their actions by the courts, and have been forced to pay millions of dollars in compensation to those that were harmed by their recklessness and greed.
Unfortunately, the length of time between exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms can make it difficult to prove an association with a particular product or company. A lawyer skilled in asbestos and mesothelioma negotiation often has access to resources that will help identify those who are responsible for your condition, and understands the laws surrounding mesothelioma claims and litigation.
If you are suffering because of the negligence of the asbestos industry, contact a mesothelioma lawyer to learn about your legal rights to seek compensation for your injuries.
About the Author
Tim Dillard is a marketing executive who has worked with some of the largest law firms in America. Dillard is currently the president of Dillard Local Branding (http://www.dlbllc.com), a Houston-based web design, Internet marketing and search engine marketing firm.
Source: Content for Reprint
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Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Looking For Some Alternative Cancer Treatment?
When you sit and ponder the hardships of our contemporary world, it's often difficult not to be saddened. There are just so many illnesses and diseases out there now days that make our health situation even worse and more complicated. Inexplicable terrors such as cancer have plagued our world for decades now. However, we still don't know the absolute best or ideal way to deal with them. Although most people assume chemotherapy is the only way to deal with the big bad "C," there are alternative cancer treatments available. Now, whether or not you find an alternative cancer treatment effective is a different story. A great deal depends on the person and his/her condition.
Do you know of a successful alternative cancer treatment? I knew a guy back in Oregon, who claimed he used regular acupuncture treatments along with meditation and yoga to treat his cancer. This was something I had never heard of before. In fact, I couldn't help but wonder how effective it would truly be. Regardless, he did appear to be doing well, and looked healthy to the naked eye. I had just always heard everyone talk about chemotherapy like it was the be-all end-all to cancer treatments. I must admit that it makes me cringe to think about the effect it has on ones body. If you didn't already know, chemotherapy is a radiation treatment that is used to kill the cancer cells/growth in the human body. Unfortunately it has to poison your body to accomplish this task. Hence the hair falling out and the vomiting. It's a terrible process to watch first hand. This actually may be why certain individuals search for an alternative cancer treatment.
Are you looking for some alternative cancer treatment to deal with your affliction? Hey, if to find a quality and effective alternative cancer treatment is your goal, then I would suggest research via the World-Wide-Web. I believe this will save a great deal of time and effort on your part. If your personal doctor knows of no legitimate alternative cancer treatment, then you must take matters into your own hands. Although this horrific disease continuously affects a number of human beings, sometimes leaving us hopeless, we certainly can't give up on finding the ideal cure. That choice alternative cancer treatment is out there. It's all about being tenacious and never quitting.
This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.
Since natural and/or dietary supplements are not FDA approved they must be accompanied by a two-part disclaimer on the product label: that the statement has not been evaluated by FDA and that the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease".
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About the Author
Hans Hasselfors writes for http://www.submityournewarticle.com. I hope you enjoyed this article. You may find more alternative cancer treatment articles at: http://www.submityournewarticle.com.
stages of mesothelioma cancer | how to deal with mesothelioma | what is mesothelioma | asbestos exposure | budwig diet | texas mesothelioma lawyer | mesothelioma lawsuit
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Mesothelioma: How to Deal with It
To be completely honest, Mesothelioma cancer is uncommon and is generally caused by contact with asbestos. Asbestos, while very popular in earlier years for house building, has since been regarded as a cancer-causer and it generally causes over two-thousand cases of Mesothelioma cancer in the United Kingdom every single year.
There are a few different Mesothelioma symptoms that you should watch out for and there are many different Mesothelioma treatments that are available if you do believe you have Mesothelioma cancer. First and foremost, you should be warned that there are two different kinds of Mesothelioma cancer and many different Mesothelioma risks.
Some of the very first Mesothelioma symptoms can be anything from a coughing fit all the way to chest pain and difficulty breathing. Generally, this type of Mesothelioma would be pleural, as it affects the lungs. If you are experiencing any abdomen pain or your stomach becomes swollen, peritoneal Mesothelioma may be the Mesothelioma cancer you have.
Mesothelioma cancer the first is pleural Mesothelioma and the second type is peritoneal Mesothelioma. Both of these cancers have different Mesothelioma symptoms and Mesothelioma treatments. Surgery is one of the most common treatments for pleural Mesothelioma which tends to make the lining of your lungs thicket. Surgery can not be used to treat peritoneal Mesothelioma though, so be aware of that.
Chemotherapy is another Mesothelioma treatment that is extremely popular as it can reduce and eliminate Mesothelioma symptoms most of the time. Although, chemotherapy when treating Mesothelioma cancer generally does not work alone and needs a back up treatment such as radioactive cancer treatment, so that is something to be aware of if you are looking to chemotherapy as an answer to all of your prayers for your Mesothelioma cancer.
When it comes to filing a Mesothelioma claim, there are many different ways to do it and you need to be sure that you learn all about Mesothelioma cancer, so you can make a solid Mesothelioma claim. There are many different things to consider when filing this type of claim and it is very important that you are very organized and you are taking notes of everything that you remember. All of the experience and details are critical when it comes to a Mesothelioma claim, for you could be suing companies for millions of dollars.
If you believe you may have gotten this type of cancer from your job, it is very important that you take your job conditions, work clothing, everything into detail so you can be as accurate as possible. Nailing down all of the details of your job is a great way to ensure that your Mesothelioma claim will go through without any problems and if you are curious to know exactly what a Mesothelioma claim should cover it should be: medical expenses, pain and suffering expenses, loss of income and any shortened life expectancy.
Mesothelioma cancer is a terrible cancer and it can be fatal if not treated right away, so it is very important to deal with Mesothelioma cancer right away if you begin to experience some of the symptoms of Mesothelioma.
Author Resource:- Bernice Eker is an expert on mesothelioma and wants to help people by sharing her expertise. For more information on the http://mesotheliomanotes.com/
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stages of mesothelioma cancer | mesothelioma awareness | what is mesothelioma | asbestos exposure | budwig diet | texas mesothelioma lawyer | mesothelioma lawsuit
Friday, March 6, 2009
What You Need Before Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit
If you suffer from mesothelioma, then you likely have grounds for a mesothelioma lawsuit. Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer, which causes malignant cells to be produced on the protective sac covering most of the bodys internal organs, mainly the lungs. Exposure to asbestos is the cause of mesothelioma; there is no known link between smoking and mesothelioma. Those with the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles, or have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, or a family member has died as a result of mesothelioma, then you are entitled to recover compensation through a mesothelioma lawsuit against the companies that made these asbestos products.
The first step in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit is to contact an attorney associated with a reputable mesothelioma trial law firm. Your mesothelioma attorney can recover up to millions of dollars, which will be invaluable in assisting you and your family with medical bills and other expenses associated with the disease. When searching for a mesothelioma attorney, you should be careful to choose a law firm that has the required experience and skill to aggressively represent your interests. You should be prepared to interview potential attorneys, asking questions such as how quickly their past cases have been resolved, how much compensation they have successfully obtained and how many total mesothelioma lawsuits they have dealt with.
Once you have selected an attorney, you will need to provide him or her with all relevant information regarding your diagnosis and prognosis. This information will form the basis of your mesothelioma lawsuit. One of those most important details to provide to your attorney is the time period in which you believe you were exposed to asbestos. This information is critical for two reasons. First, because as many as twenty or even thirty years will often pass before one becomes ill from asbestos exposure. Second, most states have a set time limit in which you can file your lawsuit, and it is very important that you not miss this deadline known as the statute of limitations.
Other details that your attorney will request from you include the name and location of your employer, the working conditions during the term of your employment, and whether your employer informed you that you would be exposed to asbestos during your employment. Many people are concerned because they do not know exactly where and when they were exposed to asbestos. Some people may have been exposed to asbestos numerous times. However, your mesothelioma attorney can help to pinpoint the products that you were exposed to. If necessary, your attorney will hire the services of a private investigator to find out where the exposure took place.
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About the Author
Nick Johnson serves as lead counsel with Johnson Law Group, a law firm with principal offices located in Houston, Texas. Johnson specializes in representing plaintiffs with injury cases involving mesothelioma. Contact Nick Johnson at 1-888-311-5522 or visit http://www.johnsonlawgroup.com
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Friday, February 20, 2009
Why Asbestos is Killing American Workers
We all heard of Absestos and the horrible consequences it has in our health. Asbestosis is "a form of lung disease (pneumoconiosis)" which causes interstitial fibrosis or scarring of the lungs.
Asbestosis is progressive and, for the most part, irreversible. Respiratory impairment worsens with time, even if exposure to asbestos has ceased. Asbestosis is usually found in asbestos workers and not in the general public. People with asbestosis have shortness of breath, often along with a cough. Asbestos cretes Mesothelioma, and Mesothelioma is a form of cancer which affects mesothelial tissue in the lungs, peritoneum or pericardium.
The biggest concern mesothelioma is that can arise both from visceral and parietal peritoneum. It is diagnosed in advanced stages in most cases, and it often takes considerable time to arrive at the correct diagnosis, as the mean symptoms-to-diagnosis time reported is 122 days.
The most frequently reported initial symptoms are abdominal pain (35%), abdominal swelling (31%), anorexia, marked weight loss, and ascites ; less frequently night sweats and hypercoagulability. Clinical presentation with fever of unknown origin, intestinal obstruction, or surgical emergency (due to acute inflammatory lesions) have been reported. Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs.
Mesothelioma is defined as an ICD-O histology code of 9050-9053. Data are presented for a five-year time period. Mesothelioma cell viability was decreased in a dose-dependent manner by lovastatin (5 to 30 microM).
These effects were not reversed by exogenous growth factors or cholesterol, but were reversed by addition of doses of micro mevalonate, confirming that lovastatin affected mesothelioma viability by inhibiting mevalonate synthesis.
This is based on the fact that Mesothelioma is a cancer of the thin lining surrounding the lung. That's why this disease is almost always fatal, often within a few months of diagnosis.
The scary part about this ilness: is that mesothelioma has a much longer latency period compared with lung cancer (40 years versus 15-20 years). Understanding this, mesothelioma is therefore likely to be found among workers who were first exposed to asbestos at an early age.
Mesothelioma is always fatal. Mesothelioma has also been found in individuals who were exposed to asbestos only once decades earlier. The only known cause of mesothelioma is asbestos. As we mentioned before, mesothelioma has a much longer latency period compared with lung cancer (40 years versus 15-20 years), and that is why mesothelioma is always fatal. Once you found out that you have mesothelioma, it is usually to late.
Exposure to asbestos has also been associated with an increased incidence of esophageal, kidney, laryngeal, pharyngeal, and buccal cavity cancers.
As with other known chronic occupational diseases, disease associated with asbestos generally appears about twenty years following the first occurrence of exposure: There are no known acute effects associated with exposure to asbestos.
Exposure to ozone for several hours, at relatively low concentrations, has been found to significantly reduce lung function. Also this sort of exposure induce respiratory inflammation in normal, healthy people during exercise. This decrease in lung function generally is accompanied by symptoms including chest pain, coughing, sneezing, and pulmonary congestion.
Also it is vital to remind readers, that exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is a significant cause of lung cancers in people who themselves do not use tobacco. Let's don't forget that between 3000 and 6000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States are caused by exposure to ETS.
About the Author: nitrogendreams
Joaquin has been working with mesothelioma lawyers and mesothelioma solicitors for many years.
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Thursday, February 19, 2009
Is Mesothelioma Of Great Concern To You?
The two places in which mesothelioma can develop are the lungs and the abdomen, but it is most commonly found in the lungs. None of these treatments seem to be highly effective in curing patients, but like other types of cancer, research is being done to try and find a treatment that will successfully heal Mesothelioma patients. If you have been affected by this disease your quality of life may have, or will in the future suffer by having being infected with Mesothelioma.
Should I consider Mesothelioma Litigation? If you have mesothelioma, the employer or organization that put you into contact with asbestos is at fault and you deserve compensation. You can also browse the Internet for mesothelioma-related information, mesothelioma pictures, more information on asbestos, etc.
The classic histopathology of the mesothelioma is a biphasic tumor with both an epithelioid and sarcomatoid or spindle cell component. What is really unique about this new mesothelioma treatment study is the fact that this is the first trial to investigate the use of chemotherapy before surgery and radiation. Usually, patients with pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial malignant mesothelioma are treated with radiation or chemotherapy, depending on the stage of the disease, the patient's age, and his/her overall health.
Pharmaceutical companies are conducting trials to come up with the right combination of drugs that can produce better results for treating pericardial mesothelioma. Radiation therapy, as applied to malignant mesothelioma uses the same basic technology as other forms of medical radiation insofar as the technique employs high energy x-rays to kill cancer cells. Even acute symptoms of mesothelioma may be mistakenly associated with other diseases.
Find a mesothelioma lawyer today. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos without sufficient protection. Malignant mesothelioma is graded upon the extent they have spread.
In 1968, there were 153 deaths caused by mesothelioma but in 2003, statistics shows 1874 deaths. The necessity for the evolution of alternative ways to treat patients suffering from mesothelioma arises because of the complex nature of different types of cancers, and because patients respond differently to various types of medical care. Even today, there are around 3,000 cases of mesothelioma being diagnosed in the United States every year.
One rare cancer that affects the lungs is Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer, which is inflicted by exposure to asbestos most frequently used in industrial and residential places till the late seventies. What Jobs Are Associated With Mesothelioma: Asbestos was used in a lot of occupations.
While no blood tests confirm a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, there are certain blood abnormalities that suggest the presence of a cancer. Just a couple of months of exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma 30 years later. It is also known that the major cause for pleural mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.
You see the only way to contract Pleural Mesothelioma is by being exposed to Asbestos. Although there is no current cure, pleural mesothelioma can be treated in a number of ways including: chemotherapy (and other drug-type therapy), radiation, intra-operative photodynamic therapy, and surgery. As the time passes and the disease grows older, the symptoms of all the three types of Mesothelioma pleural, peritoneal and pericardial start appearing in more vigorous form.
Should we expect mesothelioma lung cancer increases not only from asbestos exposure after another 20 - 30 years? A well specialized lawyer who deals with mesothelioma cases can help you maximize your compensation. However, in general mesothelioma has a latency period of 35-40 years from the time of exposure to asbestos to the actual development of symptoms.
About the Author: Uchenna Ani-Okoye
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate Programs For more information and resource links on mesothelioma visit: Mesothelioma Lawyer
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Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Children toys coming with dangerous asbestos fibres
Asbestos is fibrous silicate mineral which occurs naturally. Asbestos is considered a human carcinogen by the federal Department of Health and Human Services. When asbestos is inhaled, the results can be deadly and can damage an individual’s body through the development of mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos can cause lung cancer or asbestosis, in which fibrous tissue scars the lungs.
According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) asbestos was mined for use in thermal/acoustic insulator used for fire proofing, roofing and siding shingles made with asbestos cement, textured paint and patching compounds used on wall and ceiling joints, artificial ashes and embers for gas-fired fireplaces and for asbestos blanket or tape for hot water and steam pipes.
In late 2007, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) found asbestos- infected toys had reached the shelves of thousands of toy stores across the country. The CSI Fingerprint Examination Kit, which was made in China, had been found to contain asbestos in its white and glow powder. Families affected by the tainted toy should also consider in filing lawsuit for the exposure of substantial quantities of tremolite asbestos against the manufacturer.
ADAO has also continued its testing of other products and found several of them containing asbestos, including additional children’s toys. ADAO is an organization that utilizes volunteers affected directly or indirectly by asbestos-related illnesses like mesothelioma.
Some of the toys found to be infected by asbestos are:
1. CSI Fingerprint Examination Kit
2. Ja-Ru Toy Clay (found among three varieties of the product)
3. Art Skills' Clay Bucket (asbestos found in six colors of clay)
One of the concerns is use of talc baby powder on babies, which could contain small amounts of asbestos. Other products that have been found with asbestos contamination, according to the ADAO, include:
1. Scotch High Performance and All Weather Duct tapes
2. DAP Crack Shot Spackling Paste
3. DAP 33 Window Glazing
4. Gardner Leak Stopper
ADAO also found that hair rollers, hot plates, powdered cleansers and small appliances were at risk for adversely affecting public health with asbestos fibers. Consumer Affairs, had issued the following tips to assist parents, relatives and friends while purchasing toys for children, in order to better protect children from asbestos exposure. The list includes the following:
• While shopping read all warnings that may include a toy breaking, containing small parts or fire and choking hazards.
• Read product reviews that are both done by independent panels and consumers.
• Research information on the most recent product recalls.
• Inspect toys; any toys that are broken should be thrown away.
• Before buying, consider how and where products were assembled.
What to do if your Child is Exposed to Asbestos?
If a child is exposed or even may have potentially been exposed to asbestos containing tremolite, it is essential to get medical assistance immediately. Because of the nature of asbestos-induced conditions, if a child is exposed to asbestos and goes untreated they could develop mesothelioma cancer years later, which is why immediate medical care is advisable.
Exposure of asbestos can be prevented, especially among children, it may be necessary to develop an asbestos lawsuit to receive compensation for the irreversible damages caused by the exposure of asbestos. Mesothelioma sufferers should locate an experienced mesothelioma attorney to learn more about developing a mesothelioma lawsuit
About the Author: seymour The author is an expert on mesothelioma related lawsuits you can reach him here at mesothelioma attorney
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stages of mesothelioma cancer | mesothelioma awareness | what is mesothelioma | asbestos exposure | budwig diet | texas mesothelioma lawyer | pleural effusion
Monday, February 16, 2009
Plueral Effusion - One Sign of Mesothelioma
Asbestos was once used in building materials and certain textiles as a retardant to flames. Older buildings have a strong possibility of containing the substance, which is now removed during remodeling of structures for health reasons. While asbestos certainly protected a building and its occupants from fire by keeping the flames from spreading, many people who have been in contact with asbestos began to exhibit serious illness. Even today, crew members who are paid to remove asbestos have a high risk of becoming sick with a specialized from of cancer called mesothelioma. It's difficult to peg someone with the disease until it has been around for a while, when specialized symptoms begin to show up in addition to general symptoms, which could be reminiscent of a common cold or flu.
In this disease, cancer cells attack the protective coverings surrounding organs, called the mesothelium. The most common of these to be attacked is the pleura, the outer lining of the lungs, because asbestos is often inhaled. Other common places to find mesothelioma cells are in the peritoneum and pericardium, the lining of the abdominal cavity and heart, respectively. These cells, after causing a display of general symptoms, begin to cause a display of symptoms that are more specialized, though it does take some time. One of these symptoms is called pleural effusion.
Pleural effusion is one of the more common specialized symptoms for mesothelioma, and catching it means you should take a biopsy to make sure whether or not cells are to blame. Pleural effusion is an accumulation of fluid between the parietal pleura. This is the pleura (protective lining) covering the walls of the chest and the diaphragm. The visceral pleura, or that of the lungs, will also begin to accrue fluids.
When someone is suffering from the disease, these two linings will be covered in mesothelial cells. These cells are always covered in a thin layer of fluid on their own, in order to act as a lubricant between the lungs and the walls of the chest. Excess fluid is then absorbed into the blood and the lymph vessels in order to maintain a balance. Of course, this "balance" often results in far too much fluid in that area. This is when an effusion occurs.
There are two different types of pleural effusions: transudates and exudates. A transudate is a clear fluid that forms because of an imbalance between the normal production and removal of fluids in the area. Diseased cells, though, don't necessarily cause it, which means it is probably not a sign of mesothelioma at all. In fact, the most common cause of transudates is heart failure, not cancer. The second type, the exudates, is the type that results from mesothelioma. This fluid is often cloudy because it contains a number of cells and proteins. In order to find out which effusion a patient is suffering from, a sample of the fluid needs to be taken and tested.
Before that, though, symptoms need to occur in a patient that reveals that he or she is suffering from pleural effusion. Normally, they will have shortness of breath, called "dyspnea", and sometimes a mild or sharp pain in the chest region. Doctors will not be able to hear breathing with the use of a stethoscope, and tapping the chest will reveal dull rather than hollow sounds. A simple x-ray is usually adequate to find pleural effusion, and to further test for mesothelioma, a needle biopsy of the pleura needs to be taken. An open surgical biopsy can also be used, but it is normally limited to more severe cases, or cases where the use of a needle would be difficult.
Pleural effusion is one of the best ways for medical officials to find and test for the disease. Because it is a cancer that does not have many telling signs, doctors need to work with the few it does have. If they believe a patient has pleural effusion, it is almost always immediately tested in order to find out if it has been caused by mesothelioma or simply an imbalance in fluids. Of course, combined with other symptoms that may be exhibited by mesothelioma, doctors can often guess whether or not it is cancerous cells that are causing the effusion or not. If you believe you are having the symptoms for this even greater symptom of mesothelioma, and you know you have been around asbestos in the past, it is important that you check with your doctor to make sure everything is alright.
About the Author
Nick Johnson is lead counsel with Johnson Law Group. Johnson represents plaintiffs in many states and focuses on injury cases involving Fen-Phen and PPH, Paxil, Mesothelioma and Nursing Home Abuse. Call Nick Johnson at 1-888-311-5522 or visit http://www.johnsonlawgroup.com
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Sunday, February 15, 2009
Building a Strong Mesothelioma Case
Have you been diagnosed with mesothelioma? Have you been told that your mesothelioma is the result of prolonged asbestos exposure? Does your insurance company give you problems over medical payments because of the lack of true evidence that your mesothelioma was work related and began decades ago? If you answered yes to these questions, you have grounds to file a mesothelioma lawsuit.
In order to build a good, strong mesothelioma case, the first thing you should do is gather all of your medical diagnosis papers and any past documentation of your work. Past documentation could include pay stubs, tax papers, or any other documents that shows where you worked. You will also want to gather all of your insurance information and documentation as well. Your mesothelioma lawyer will request all of this information in order to begin your case.
Once you have given your lawyer all of the necessary paperwork, you want to keep in contact with your lawyer and let them know of your progression. Most lawyers will work with you and even come to your home if you are unable to come to their offices. Be honest with the information that you provide to the lawyer. Do not hold or hid any information. Everything you say to your lawyer will help him or her work successfully on your case.
It is good to plan for the unknown. Mesothelioma can be deadly. You should speak with your lawyer and your family about any directives that give them guidance on your condition and your case just in case you are no longer able to speak for yourself. Put this in writing. This is a very important part of building a strong case. If you do become unable to speak for yourself and there are not instructions for anyone else, your case will weaken and possibly end. So, you want to be sure everyone knows what to do in the unknown.
Inform your mesothelioma attorney of the names of anyone else who could have been exposed to asbestos as a result of you bringing the fibers home on your clothes. These people would be the ones who lived with you when you worked for the company where you were exposed to asbestos. They also may be in danger of mesothelioma.
Building a good, strong mesotheloma case is something that you can discuss with your attorney. They will be able to tell you what all you need to build your case. Each case is unique and individual, so your mesothelioma attorney will be able to tell you which ways would work best for your case so that you can build a very strong case.
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About the Author
Nick Johnson is lead counsel with Johnson Law Group. Johnson represents plaintiffs in many states and focuses on injury cases involving Fen-Phen and PPH, Paxil, Mesothelioma and Nursing Home Abuse. Call 1-888-311-5522 today or visit http://www.johnsonlawgroup.com for a free case evaluation.
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Saturday, February 14, 2009
Mesothelioma - History, Hazards And Dietary Advice
History of asbestos.
There are four main types of asbestos; Amosite (brown fibers), Anthophyllite (gray fibers), white Christie, and blue Crocidolite. Chrysotile has curly fibers while the other three have rod like fibers. These fibers fragment into dust quite readily and waft into the air. They can adhere to skin or clothing and are easily swallowed or inhaled.
Half a century ago, asbestos was hailed by many as a miracle product. They said nearly anything could be made from this mineral. It as used as an additive to reinforce mortar and plastics. Asbestos fibers can also be separated into fine threads that do not conduct electricity and are unaffected by heat or chemicals.
Use of asbestos drastically increased during World War II. Shipbuilding incorporated asbestos extensively in freighters and support vessels to insulate boilers, steam pipes and hot water pipes. Asbestos became the miracle construction material as it was readily obtained, processed, and transported. After WWII cars used asbestos in brake shoes and clutch pads. Asbestos found its way into residential and industrial building materials, water supply, sewage materials, ceiling and floor tiles, and vermiculite garden materials to name a few products.
In the 1970's, following the discoveries of the health dangers of asbestos dust inhalation, the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission prohibited the use of asbestos in several products that could liberate asbestos fibers into the environment during use. Regulations governing the use of asbestos and public concern since 1970 have created a significant drop in the use of asbestos in the United States. The same pattern has been seen in most of the developed world.
In 1989 all new uses of asbestos were banned by the Environmental Protection Agency while any old uses before that year were still allowed. The EPA suggested that schools inspect for damaged asbestos and eliminate any exposure or enclose it in protective barriers. Vermiculite, widely used in horticulture, became a concern of the EPA . They recommended outdoor use, limiting the amount of dust used, and keeping vermiculite damp.
Health hazards
Asbestos may create serious health hazards such as coughing, lung damage, shortness of breath, and lung cancer. Most people do not become sick in the early stages of contact but usually need continued exposure. This often means on jobs such as mining, milling, manufacturing asbestos products, and the building construction industry. Firemen, demolition and destruction workers, drywall removers, and anyone else involved in trades that involve destruction of buildings, ships, and automobiles are also exposed to the hazards of asbestos.
Over a number of years continual exposure to asbestos can cause very serious health problems, such as mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare type of carcinoma of the membrane that lines numerous cavities of the body, including the lungs, abdomen and heart, and has been associated with exposure to asbestos dust. In mesothelioma, the cells of the mesothelioma metastasize and damage adjacent organs and tissues.
Mesothelioma may not develop for a long period of time, often as long as twenty-five or thirty-five years before full blown symptoms appear. Not all workers who have been exposed will develop diseases, but workers who have been exposed to it may bring fibers on their clothing, hair, shoes, and skin home to their families. To circumvent this risk, most industries require workers to bathe and change their clothing before they leave work.
Dietary advice for Mesothelioma patients
Doctors and nutritionists may recommend a special cancer diet because many mesothelioma patients tend to lose their appetites due to worry over their condition. Also, those who are undergoing treatment may choose not to eat because of the unpleasant side effects they may experience. Chemotherapy and some medications may cause an imbalance of nutrients that must be corrected in order to keep the body as strong as possible and to keep the patient from losing an excessive amount of weight. Other side effects of mesothelioma treatment can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth and a change in the sense of smell or taste.
In our childhood we were all told to eat our vegetables. Forcing down cabbage and sprouts was supposed to make us bigger and stronger. Well, so it is for mesothelioma patients. Diet is often an overlooked subject for cancer patients, but eating the right nutritional foods for strength and energy is just as important as taking the proper medication.
Mesothelioma patients undergoing treatment must follow a special cancer diet devised by their nutritionists. The details of every patient's mesothelioma diet will vary. Some patients will need to incorporate more fat into their diets, while others may need more protein. Cancer diets involve eating the correct amounts of protein and calories as well as drinking the right amount of water to keep the ailing body replenished and energized. The body needs plenty of nourishment when it is going through chemotherapy or even when the patient is taking certain medications.
It is important that patients devise a cancer diet under the guidance of their doctor and nutritionist to ensure that they obtain the proper amount of nutrients to improve their quality of life.
Protein is important for any cancer patient because it helps repair tissue damaged by surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. Protein also helps maintain a strong and healthy immune system, lowering a mesothelioma patient's risk of infection after aggressive cancer treatments. The National Cancer Institute recommends increasing protein in a cancer diet with cheese, milk, ice cream, yoghurt, eggs, nuts, peanut butter, meats and fish.
Fats are an essential part of the cancer diet because they supply the body with the necessary energy it needs while undergoing treatment. The amount of fats a cancer diet should consist of is dependent on a mesothelioma patient's age and body size. The National Cancer Institute recommends increasing caloric intake with such foods as butter, milk, cheese, honey, sugar, granola and dried fruits.
Water is another essential component of the cancer diet. Without a significant amount of water, the body will dehydrate. It is important that anyone undergoing cancer treatment drink sufficient water to keep their bodies hydrated and replenished.
About the author Michael Aldridge
Article supplied by Michael Aldridge. For a complete and extensive guide to mesothelioma, please visit our web site at http://www.mesothelioma.informatee.com Article Source: Free Article Directory - http://www.articleManiac.com Search And Submit Articles
stages of mesothelioma cancer | mesothelioma awareness | what is mesothelioma | asbestos exposure | budwig diet | texas mesothelioma lawyer