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The Three Faces of Mesothelioma

by Wes Calinetter

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that's brought about by the exposure to asbestos. Although much of this material has been removed from public and private locations since this illness and its effects have come to light, there are still scenarios which pose the threat of asbestos exposure, and those who have been exposed in previous years are still at risk for developing the cancer that's associated with exposure. In fact, it typically takes between 10 and 50 years to exhibit the symptoms of such a disease, which means that those who inhaled these fibers as far back as 1955 might just now be presenting the signs of Mesothelioma.

There are three known types of Mesothelioma ' pleural, peritoneal and pericardial, each attacking a different area of the body. Technically speaking, Mesothelioma refers to cancer of the mesothelium, which is a sac that lines and protects vital organs, such as in the case of the lungs and heart. When Mesothelioma is present, the cells within the lining of mesothelium become cancerous.

The most common form of the illness ' Pleural Mesothelioma ' targets the lungs, their protective lining and cavity. When fluid builds up between the lung lining and chest cavity as a result of Mesothelioma, pleural effusion is the result. In addition, other symptoms may make their presence known, which may include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, difficulty swallowing, rasping, bloody discharge from coughing, fever and weight loss.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma ' a rare form of the disease ' affects the stomach and abdominal region. Although this may first present itself in the abdomen, it can spread to other parts of the body as it advances. The symptoms that become apparent are due to the tumors which press against the wall of the abdomen and may include abdominal pain and swelling, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, respiratory problems, bowel obstructions, fever, anemia and a disruption of the coagulation of the blood.

Pericardial Mesothelioma is the rarest of all types of Mesothilioma. This is the form of the disease that targets the heart and the surrounding cavity. Tumors form in this type as well, causing similar symptoms as Peritoneal Mesothelioma, such as the shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, palpitations and persistent cough.

Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because it exhibits many symptoms that other diseases exhibit. Pneumonia and heart disease both cause shortness of breath,heart disease causes chest pain, etc. If the patient is not aware of any prior exposure to asbestos,Mesothelioma will not be assumed as a cause of these symptoms.That is the reason this cancer is not often pursued by physicians as a cause of these symptoms, unless all other possible diseases have been ruled out.

Shipbuilders, drywall removers, construction workers, firemen, mechanics and demolition workers are those types of workers who are most prone to asbestos exposure. As a result, they are the most prone to developing Mesothelioma. Tragically, those who are close to the victims of this disease may be at high risk for developing the disease because asbestos fibers cling to skin, hair, clothing and shoes. They can then, become airborne and eventually be inhaled by those who are in close proximity to the victims of the disease.

While there are treatments and supportive services that may be put into place for those who suffer from Mesothelioma, there is no known cure. Typically, those who are diagnosed with the disease lose their lives within one year of the diagnosis, and most others follow within the next six months. At best, patients can be kept as comfortable as possible through pain management and, in some cases, respiratory therapy programs.

About the Author:

Wes Calinetter - http://www.ohiomesothelioma.com

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