Mesothelioma is aggressive cancer that primarily affects the lungs. It is caused by exposure to asbestos and has a long latency period, which means symptoms may not appear until decades after the exposure. While there is no cure for mesothelioma, treatment options have improved in recent years and patients now have a better chance of managing the disease. Here are 4 things you should know about mesothelioma.
Basics
Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that typically affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It can take many years before exposed individuals experience any symptoms. Unfortunately, this type of cancer typically presents itself at a late stage, making it all the more dangerous.
Treatment options depend on various factors such as the type of mesothelioma present, its extensiveness, and the health and age of the individual affected. Treatments are often not enough to offer a cure. Still, medical advances are being made every day that work to stop mesothelioma from spreading further.
Causes
It is mainly caused by long-term exposure to asbestos, a mineral material widely used for insulation and other purposes. Exposure to asbestos can occur through breathing in airborne fibres, ingestion, or absorption through the skin. There is also a genetic component involved, as some families are more likely to develop mesothelioma than others.
While workplace settings are known to have high levels of asbestos exposure, people living near it can also acquire mesothelioma due to environmental contamination with this hazardous material. It’s important to be aware of these potential causes, so as to prevent mesothelioma in ourselves and future generations. If you were exposed to asbestos in a workplace setting, you may be entitled to compensation. Have a consult with a mesothelioma claim lawyer to see if you have a case.
Symptoms
Mesothelioma can be challenging to diagnose due to the range and subtlety of symptoms. Commonly reported symptoms of mesothelioma include difficulty breathing, often accompanied by chest pain and/or fatigue. Shortness of breath can also in some cases occur upon mild exertion, such as climbing stairs or walking distances. Unfortunately, if identified too late, treatment options are greatly reduced, so it’s best to report any suspicious symptoms to your doctor right away just in case.
Treatments
Treatment options for mesothelioma depend heavily on the stage of cancer and the overall health of the patient. Surgery is often employed to remove tumours in the early stages, while radiation therapy or chemotherapy can help shrink tumours that have spread too far for surgery alone.
Additionally, patients may benefit from a combination of multiple treatments for a more comprehensive approach. While the range of treatment options for mesothelioma isn’t as extensive as other types of cancer, there are still viable options for providing much-needed relief that can give patients a better quality of life.
Mesothelioma is a serious form of cancer that can have devastating effects. It’s important to be aware of the potential causes and symptoms so you can seek treatment as soon as possible if needed. If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to talk with your doctor right away and consider consulting a mesothelioma claim lawyer about any legal recourse that may be available. With early detection and proper treatment, those affected by this disease have better chances of living longer, healthier lives.
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Author: Rachelle Wilber
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym.
