What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is actually a rare form of cancer which grows in the Mesothelium, which is the membrane or protective sac that surrounds the various organs of the body. The official Mesothelioma Information from the American Cancer Society's web site states, "Mesothelioma affects the tissue that lines different organs and spaces inside the body." In more simple terms, it is a cancer located in the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura (pleural Mesothelioma), which is the lining of the lungs. It can also develop in the peritoneum (peritoneal Mesothelioma), which is the lining of the abdominal cavity.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
What Causes Mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of Mesothelioma. In fact, many researchers believe that Asbestos exposure is the only known Mesothelioma cause. In addition, this condition is widely considered to be a work related disease as it is very rare that Mesothelioma develops outside of work environments. According to most of the available Mesothelioma information, smoking alone does not appear to cause Mesothelioma.
For more detailed information about Asbestos, click here.
For more detailed information about Asbestos, click here.
What are the symptoms of Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of Mesothelioma can appear at any time up to 50 years after asbestos exposure.
These symptoms often include the following:
1. Shortness of breath (Dyspnea) or difficulty breathing.
2. Coughing and/or coughing up blood.
3. Pian in the chest or abdomen caused by fluid buildup.
4. Abnormal weight loss.
5. Change in voice, typically resulting in a husky sounding voice.
6. Difficulty swallowing or Dysphasia.
7. Unexplained fever.
8. Anemia.
9. Bowel obstruction.
10. Problems sleeping.
11. Appetite loss.
These symptoms may be mistaken for other conditions, as they can closely resemble symptoms associated with allergies, cardiovascular disease, asthma, pneumonia and other common afflictions.
What are the treatment options?
Mesothelioma treatment options should be carefully discussed with your physician. Treatment typically falls within the three main categories: chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. The location and stage of the cancer determines which of these treatment options are used.
Clinical trials should always be considered and discussed with your doctor. There are many listed at cancer organizations and research hospitals around the world. Your doctor can also help you to find a clinical trial that is a good match for you and should be able to provide you with ample Mesothelioma information for you to study. The internet is also a great source to locate clinical trials, new research and plenty of Mesothelioma information.
For more information about treatment options, please click here.
For more information about treatment options, please click here.
What is the prognosis for Mesothelioma?
Prognosis for those afflicted with Mesothelioma depends on various factors that include but are not limited to the following:
1. How far the disease has spread
2. The type of Mesothelioma.
3. How early the disease was detected.
Mesothelioma information is available on the internet, in libraries, bookstores, etc. Remember, knowledge is power. Learning everything there is to know about your disease could save your life.
In addition, you should get involved with a support group as quickly as possible. For help finding a good support group, please click here.
In addition, you should get involved with a support group as quickly as possible. For help finding a good support group, please click here.
Should I consider Legal Action against those responsible?
Mesothelioma treatment can be very expensive and unfortunately there is suffering involved. You obviously did not choose this condition, so don't feel bad about pursuing your legal rights against those responsible for your exposure.
