Mesothelioma is a kind of cancer which develops in the lining which covers the outer surface of some of the body’s organs. It is regularly associated with the asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma primarily impacts the lining of the lungs, even though it can also impact the lining of the tummy, testicles or heart. More than 2,600 have been diagnosed with the mesothelioma and that number is projected to reoccur annually in the United Kingdom. Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in those that are aged at 60 to 80 and men are more affected than are women. Unluckily, it is rarely possible to heal mesothelioma, even though treatment can help control the symptoms.
The Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Basically, the symptoms of mesothelioma tend to grow gradually over time. They usually do not appear until several decades subsequent to the exposure to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma in the lining of the lungs commonly comprise of
- fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- a persistent cough
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- a high temperature and sweating, mainly at night
- clubbed (swollen) fingertips
- loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
There are some other symptoms of mesothelioma which occur in the lining of the tummy. These include tummy pain or swelling, being or feeling sick, loss of appetite and significant weight loss, and constipation or diarrhea. You need to see your GP in case you have any worrying symptoms or persistent ones. Let them know about any exposure to asbestos that you may have had in the past.
What are the Causes of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is almost always triggered by the exposure to asbestos, which is a group of minerals that are made of microscopic fibers that were used widely in building construction. These small fibers can get in human’ lungs very easily, where they get lodged or stuck, later damaging the lungs over a long period of time. It commonly takes a while for this to occur and cause any obvious symptoms or problems, with the cancer typically developing more than 15 years after the first exposure to asbestos.The use of asbestos was banned entirely in 1999, so the risk of exposure is lower nowadays. But, materials which contain asbestos are still present in various older buildings.
How to Diagnose Mesothelioma
If your doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will refer to a hospital specialist for tests. A number distinctive tests may be required. These include:
- X-ray on your tummy or chest
- A computerized tomography (CT) scan- a number of X-ray images are needed to create a detailed description of the inside of the body.
- Fluid drainage. If there is a build up of fluid surrounding the lugs or in the stomach, a sample may be taken using a needle which is inserted through the skin so this can be analyzed for better diagnosis.
- A laparoscopy or thoracoscopy. The inside of your stomach or chest is checked with long, thin camera which is inserted through small cut under anesthetic or sedation; a tissue which is sampled may be removed for further analysis.
