Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is the name given to a rare and aggressive cancer that attacks the lining of organs. The most common type of this cancer forms in the lining of the lungs (pleural) but has also been observed in the linings of the stomach (peritoneal) and heart (pericardial) as well. The only known cause of malignant mesothelioma is exposure to a naturally occurring mineral known as asbestos. Asbestos was used extensively in insulation, brake lining, piping and flooring throughout the 20^th century.

Like most cancers, mesothelioma is very difficult to treat effectively if not caught early. Unfortunately, early diagnosis is not very common. The symptoms of mesothelioma can take anywhere from 25 to 50 years to begin showing up. The initial symptoms are also very similar to other, less serious respiratory ailments and are sometimes misdiagnosed at first. Pleural mesothelioma symptoms include:

• Persistent dry or raspy cough (typically non-productive, meaning there is little or no phlegm)
• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
• Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
• Night sweats or fever
• Unexplained weight loss of 10 percent or more
• Fatigue
• Persistent pain in the chest or rib area, or painful breathing
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea) that occurs even when at rest
• The appearance of lumps under the skin on the chest

As stated before, because early diagnosis is so difficult, the cancer is usually in its advanced stages when diagnosed and therefore treatment options become more limited and less effective. A typical mesothelioma prognosis is poor and most people with this type of cancer live for about 1 year after diagnosis.

Those who worked in industries that made widespread use of asbestos are at high risk for developing mesothelioma. Such occupations include shipyard workers, insulators, construction workers, welders, plumbers, electricians, steamfitters, pipefitters, boilermakers, railroad workers, chemical plant workers, power plant workers, miners and auto mechanics. Individuals who live with people who work with asbestos are also at high risk for developing mesothelioma as asbestos can cling to clothing.

 

 

Help is at hand for anybody looking to make a mesothelioma claim

 

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