Mesothelioma - A Rare Asbestos DiseaseMesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, is found in the linings of internal organs. It is most prevalent in the abdomen and lungs (peritoneum) however it can also be found in the pleura. Exposure to asbestos can result in an increased risk of developing the disease.The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a non-flammable and heat-resistant fiber. However, symptoms could take years to develop following exposure.Signs and symptomsMesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues that line the stomach, lungs and heart. It is usually caused when asbestos fibers are inhaled and deposited in the organ lining. People most likely to have this condition are those who work with asbestos, such as plumbers, miners carpenters, welders, and carpenters. It can also occur in people who lived with workers who brought asbestos to their homes on their clothes or skin. Other people at risk include those who work in households where asbestos is present and those who are disturbed by asbestos during renovations to their homes or maintenance.There are four mesothelioma stages. People who are in the early or mid-stages do not have symptoms and can go on for a while before they are diagnosed. When they are diagnosed the cancer is advanced and difficult to treat.The symptoms of mesothelioma do not usually appear until decades after the exposure. The disease takes a long time to develop due to asbestos fibers that must travel from the lungs to other parts of the body before they can cause mesothelioma. The lining of the lungs is the most frequent location where mesothelioma develops however it could also begin in the linings of the stomach or the heart. It can also show up in the tissues of the reproductive organs.A biopsy of the area affected is the best way for doctors to diagnose mesothelioma. The specimen is examined under a microscope to determine whether the cancer cells are of mesothelioma or another kind.Doctors may request x-rays and CT scans to pinpoint the issue. They can also use MRIs to determine if there is any tumors or if the lining of the chest or abdomen has thickened. They can also look for fluid within the chest cavity. They can also request an examination of lung function to measure the extent to which a person's lungs are working.A mesothelioma diagnosis mistake can be harmful because it may delay the start of treatment that could improve a patient's prognosis. This is why it is essential to consult a doctor whenever symptoms begin to manifest. A GP will be able to assess the symptoms and examine the history of asbestos exposure for a patient.DiagnosisMesothelioma is a form of cancer, develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium lining surrounds many of organs inside the body including the abdominal cavity and the chest. Pleural mesothelioma affects the outer layer (pleura) of the lungs. In less frequent instances, mesothelioma may occur in the membrane that lines the abdomen (peritoneum) or the heart sac (pericardium) and, very often, it may develop in the testicles (tunica vaginalis mesothelioma, or tunica vaginalis mesothelioma of the testicle).A doctor can identify the disease by taking a sample of the tissue for imaging tests or a biopsy. The doctor can determine the grade of mesothelioma. It is a measure of how aggressive and likely it is to grow.The most important risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring thermal, fire-resistant and heat-resistant fiber that was used in the manufacturing and construction industries until the late 1970s. People who worked in occupations such as asbestos mining or milling, insulators, pipefitters plumbers, pipefitters, and those who renovated older homes are more at risk than other people of developing mesothelioma.Inhaling the tiny asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma. These tiny fibers can become trapped in the lungs, causing inflammation that causes lung scarring. Asbestos exposure can also increase the chances of smoking, which can further increase the risk for mesothelioma.The risk of developing mesothelioma rises with the amount of time they were exposed to asbestos. Those who have been exposed to the most asbestos-containing levels are at the highest risk of developing mesothelioma.There are a few risk factors that can be altered, such as a person's age or whether they smoke, but the majority mesothelioma risk factors are related to asbestos exposure. Certain risk factors cannot be altered, such as the history of a family member or genetics. Mesothelioma risks are also increased if they have certain illnesses or health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.TreatmentMesothelioma is a condition that affects the mesothel forms the lungs and abdomen. Mesothelioma can develop in people who have been exposed to asbestos. The disease typically develops over the years after asbestos exposure. It can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms can be similar to other conditions and come and go. Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma may receive compensation via lawsuits or trust funds.There is no cure for mesothelioma however, there are treatments to control the disease and improve your quality of life. Patients should seek medical attention from a doctor who has had experience treating the disease. Doctors will examine the medical history of a patient to look for symptoms and mesothelioma-related risks for asbestos exposure.The most frequent cause of Mesothelioma's is exposure to asbestos. It is caused by breathing in tiny asbestos fibers floating in the air. These fibers can become lodged in the lungs, and could cause genetic mutations that result in cancer. The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung's lining. It can also affect the lining of the chest (pericardium) and abdomen and testicles (peritoneal peritoneal cancer).Like other cancers, mesothelioma caused by the DNA of cells that are experiencing mutations. These mutations cause the cell to expand uncontrollably, resulting in a tumor. People over 75 and veterans of the U.S. armed forces are more likely to develop mesothelioma.There are various types of mesothelioma and each has a different rate of survival. Patients must be aware that mesothelioma diagnosis is grave and difficult to treat. There is hope, however, as research continues to make progress in extending survival. Veterans with mesothelioma may also be eligible for VA benefits.The following is a list of preventions.Mesothelioma, although rare, is extremely avoidable. Asbestos is a natural mineral that was once extensively used in construction, shipbuilding and other industries due to its unique properties of durability, strength as well as fire resistance and heat insulation. However, the tiny asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed, and if inhaled, could cause serious health issues like mesothelioma.The only way to avoid mesothelioma is to avoid being exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure is the main reason for mesothelioma and the majority of people diagnosed with the disease have been exposed to asbestos at some point throughout their lives. Other factors can increase the chance of developing mesothelioma, including smoking, age and genes.Mesothelioma most commonly affects the abdomen and lungs. (tummy). Rarely, mesothelioma is found in other areas of the body. mesothelioma asbestosis can take a long time to develop and may not manifest until 20 or 40 years after exposure to asbestos. People who have been exposed to asbestos should visit their physician regularly if they notice any unusual symptoms. This could include coughing or a shortness of breath.The signs of asbestosis are tightness in the chest, frequent coughing and a bluish appearance to the skin due to the body is struggling to get enough oxygen. Inhaling asbestos fibers can also cause irritation to the lung tissue and cause scarring, known as fibrosis. This could cause fluid to build up in the lungs, as well as other parts of your body including the heart. Inflammation may also cause genetic changes that could cause cancer to develop in the lung.Asbestosis isn't curable however there are treatments to alleviate symptoms. These treatments can improve the quality of life and breathing for patients.Mesothelioma typically occurs in the tummy and lungs but can also affect the stomach, heart and testicles. There is no way to avoid mesothelioma. However there are ways to reduce the risk. Ask your employer about safety guidelines and make sure you be sure to check your workplace for asbestos. It is also recommended to wear protective gear and wash their clothes at work outside of the home to ensure that they are not tethered to clothing belonging to family members.