To know about Mesothelioma’s symptoms, one must first know about the disease. It is a kind of cancer, which in most cases, is caused by exposure to asbestos. This particular disease is characterized by the development of malignant cells in the protective lining of the body’s internal organs – this lining is called the mesothelium – hence the reason for the name Mesothelioma. However, it may occur in the heart, tunica vaginalis, or even in the pericardium (a sac surrounding the heart). What cause Mesothelioma? It is caused by a prolonged exposure to asbestos, and the disease shows signs at least 30 to 40 years later. Some of the symptoms of the disease are of a general nature, but one must immediately report them to the doctor, for easy diagnosis and fast treatment.
A layer made up of specialized cells or membrane called mesothelium covers the most of the internal organs. There are two layers of cells in mesothelium. Organs are surrounded by the first one which is surrounded by the second thick layer. Between these two layer a lubricating fluid is concealed which is produced by the membrane itself. This lubricant allows the organs to move smoothly against adjacent organs and structures (for example the expansion and contraction of lungs, beating of the heart etc…
Mesothelioma has different names according to the different location in the body. One of all those is peritoneum which covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. Pleura is the membrane which surrounds the lungs and lines Continue reading
The symptoms of mesothelioma are often confused with many other conditions, and because the onset of symptoms can occur many years after exposure (sometimes 20 years, or even 30 to 50 years), there can be a delay in diagnosis or even seeking medical opinions.
The symptoms of the three types of mesothelioma will be covered here, as well as common symptoms seen in all types of mesothelioma.
The information contained here should not constitute a diagnosis. Only a doctor can determine whether symptoms are mesothelioma or something less serious such as pneumonia, flu or bronchitis.
Unfortunately, by the time the symptoms present and the patient has seen a doctor, Continue reading
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is contracted through exposure to a material known as asbestos.Asbestos is a material made up of minerals that have long, fibrous crystals. Asbestos became popular in the 1800s. Asbestos is resistant to chemicals, electricity and heat. It was mixed into cement and fabric had the material woven into it. Because it is resistant to heat, manufactures used it to make gaskets and brake shoes. Since it is a good insulator of electricity at high temperatures, it was often used in ovens and hotplates. Asbestos is strong and resistant to fire, so it was used in buildings for insulation, strength and flexibility. Since the 1980s, bans have been placed on the use of asbestos because it is incredibly toxic. Serious illnesses such as Mesothelioma can be caused from inhaling the fibers of asbestos.
