What Does Mesothelioma Do?
What does mesothelioma do? Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries until the 1980s.
Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma
The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma affects the lining of the heart. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Fatigue
Mesothelioma is diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans, as well as biopsies, where a sample of tissue is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope.
Surgery
Surgery is often used to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible. This may involve removing part of the lung or abdomen, or even the entire affected organ.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery and radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells. This is a newer type of treatment that is still being studied.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are studies that test new treatments for mesothelioma. They are often the best option for patients who have exhausted all other treatment options.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos.
Is Mesothelioma Curable?
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment can help to manage the symptoms and prolong the patient's life.
How Long Does It Take for Mesothelioma to Develop?
Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Who is at Risk for Mesothelioma?
People who have worked in industries where asbestos was commonly used, such as construction and shipbuilding, are at the highest risk for mesothelioma.
Can Mesothelioma be Prevented?
Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos.
What is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma?
The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis, as well as the patient's overall health and age.
What is the Survival Rate for Mesothelioma?
The survival rate for mesothelioma is low, with most patients surviving less than two years after diagnosis.
What Should I Do if I Have Been Exposed to Asbestos?
If you have been exposed to asbestos, you should talk to your doctor about getting screened for mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, affecting only around 3,000 people in the United States each year.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of survival.
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos and can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop after exposure. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, abdominal pain, and swelling. Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials. There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment can help to manage the symptoms and prolong the patient's life.
