Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects people who have faced exposure to asbestos. For most, this results from working in a job that used the material or that took place in areas where this material was present.
Mesothelioma is a cancer that attacks the lining, or mesothelium, that covers certain internal organs. However, this cancer can arise in many different places. Where the cancer occurs can significantly affect a doctor’s treatment plan and a person’s chances for survival. Understanding these types of mesothelioma can help you to recognize you symptoms and seek out medical attention.
There are various forms of mesothelioma that can affect people after exposure to asbestos. However, each type has a few things in common.
This disease is caused by exposure to asbestos, which is composed of trillions of small fibers that can float through the air and enter a person’s body through their mouth or nose. The presence of asbestos in these linings can cause cancer. This cancer can remain in one place or spread throughout the body. The location of the tumors is the main factor in a doctor’s determination of what type a mesothelioma patient has.
The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural. This simply means that the cancer has affected the lining surrounding a person’s lungs. The reason this is most common is that the lungs are often where asbestos first enters the body. If the fibers become attached to the lungs, this is where the cancer will start.
Common signs of pleural mesothelioma include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and painful coughing. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should reach out to a doctor immediately.
While the lungs are the most common site of cancers related to asbestos exposure, they are not the only organs that may be affected. Other internal organs contain mesothelium, and because of this, they are vulnerable to this form of cancer.
Peritoneal is another common kind of mesothelioma. These cancers affect the lining surrounding a person’s abdomen as a product of ingesting and inhaling the fibers. Early warning signs can include stomach pain, abdominal swelling, and weight loss.
Even rarer are sorts of mesothelioma that attack other internal organs. Doctors have noted that hearts are particularly vulnerable to pericardial mesothelioma. Men may also contract this disease in their testicles, resulting in mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis. Only a trained doctor can provide a proper diagnosis, and anyone who suspects health problems due to asbestos exposure should seek out care right away.
Though usually associated with the deterioration of the lungs, the different types of mesothelioma can actually affect the lining around many of the body’s internal organs, including the abdomen, heart, and testicles. This disease can impact every part of your life, leaving you physically, emotionally, and financially vulnerable.
Every example of mesothelioma is serious. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to understand that you have legal options. A compassionate lawyer can assess your case and walk you through the next steps in getting the compensation you need and deserve. Call now to get started.
