Asbestos mesothelioma is a rare but dangerous cancer caused by exposure to asbestos particles suspended in the air.
Asbestos- the Main Culprit behind Asbestos Mesothelioma
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals. It consists of sturdy and durable fibers that are resistant to heat and fire. The thin long, and flexible structure of asbestos fibers allow them to weave even into cloth. These inherent qualities of asbestos prompted the manufacturers of industrial, automotive, maritime, scientific, building, and consumer products to use it widely during 1890-1970.
Different Types of Mesothelioma and Their Symptoms
Asbestos mesothelioma affects the lining of lungs, abdominal organs, or heart.
Asbestos mesothelioma affecting the lining of the lungs or pleural membrane is called pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are persistent cough, difficulty in breathing, weakness, loss of weight, loss of appetite, chest pain, lower back pain, and difficulty in swallowing. In most of the cases, fluid accumulates in pleural space.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of abdominal organs or peritoneum. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are pain and swelling in the abdomen, weakness, loss of weight, loss of appetite, and nausea. In most of the cases, fluid accumulates in the peritoneal space.
When the disease affects the lining of the heart or pericardium, it is pericardial mesothelioma. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include heart palpitations, persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, and Fatigue
Mesothelioma Kills Silently
The most unfortunate thing about the asbestos mesothelioma is its long latency period. Any individual, who had asbestos exposure even 20 to 50 years back, may have asbestos mesothelioma lying dormant in his body without any appearance of symptoms mentioned above. By the time symptoms become noticeable, it is already too late. The average survival time of all types of mesothelioma patients is not more than 24 months.
Diagnosis of Asbestos Mesothelioma
Diagnosis of mesothelioma involves x-ray, CT-scan, peritoneoscopy, and bronchoscopy. After finding any abnormality doctor may suggest a biopsy. In a biopsy, we send a tissue sample for pathological examination. After examining the tissue sample, an expert pathologist can confirm the development of the disease.
Treatment of Mesothelioma
Some treatment options available for the patients suffering from mesothelioma:
– chemotherapy
– radiation therapy
– surgery
People suffering from mesothelioma can file lawsuits to recover damages for the persons or industries responsible for their asbestos exposure.