Diagnosing Mesothelioma
Article by Michael Enfield
Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that only has a 10% survival rate after five years. Indeed, most people succumb to this disease in an average of ten months following their initial diagnosis. Thus, it is important that you recognize the signs and symptoms of mesothelioma so that doctors can diagnose the disease and put you on a treatment plan.
First, one of the most important things to realize is that mesothelioma is almost always the result of asbestos exposure. If you go to a doctor complaining of mesothelioma-like symptoms, he or she will probably interview you to see if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past. If so, this can help narrow down your potential condition.
Asbestos fibers can become lodged in many different areas of your body following inhalation or ingestion of the particles. Therefore, mesothelioma can occur in your lungs, around your heart, in the abdominal cavity, or even in the testes. Unfortunately, the symptoms of mesothelioma are very general, which can hinder its detection. Symptoms of each type of mesothelioma include:
Pleural mesothelioma – chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath Pericardial mesothelioma – chest pain, heart arrhythmia Peritoneal mesothelioma – abdominal pain, nausea, unintentional weight loss, bulges Testicular mesothelioma – lumps in the testes or swelling of the scrotum
Signs of these types of mesothelioma as well as past asbestos exposure are the main indicators of mesothelioma. Doctors may also check for fluid in the affected area as this can also signify problems with the mesothelium, or the lining of cells where mesothelioma begins. After this, doctors can use diagnostic imaging devices such as x-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans to locate the tumors.
Mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning that it may not show symptoms until 20-50 years after your asbestos exposure. It is important to let your doctor know if you have been exposed to asbestos so that he or she can help you with early detection methods.
To learn more about everything from sources of asbestos to treatment options for mesothelioma, please visit the Mesothelioma help center today.
About the Author
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease. We understand that you may feel confused and lost after your diagnosis, and we are here to help. To learn more about mesothelioma and mesothelioma treatment, you should contact the Mesothelioma Help Center today.