WebMD Disease Mesothelioma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The silent killer you need to know about 💀

Welcome, readers, to this informative article about a serious disease you need to be aware of: mesothelioma. This particular type of cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos and can be life-threatening. We have compiled all the essential information about the disease, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment, to help you better understand this condition.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects cells in your body’s mesothelium tissue lining. This tissue covers and protects your internal organs and is present in areas like the lungs, abdominal cavity, and heart. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.

It’s important to note that mesothelioma is different from lung cancer, even though it affects the lungs. Mesothelioma develops due to exposure to asbestos, while lung cancer can develop for various reasons, such as smoking or exposure to radon gas.

Causes of Mesothelioma 🌡️

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral that was widely used in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive manufacturing until the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they enter the lungs and become embedded in the mesothelium lining, leading to inflammation and mutation of cells. This can lead to the development of mesothelioma.

However, it’s important to note that not everyone who has been exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. The risk increases with the length and intensity of exposure, as well as other factors such as age, smoking history, and genetic predisposition.

Other risk factors for mesothelioma include:

Risk Factor	Description
Exposure to other minerals	Other minerals such as erionite have been linked to mesothelioma
Gender	Men are more likely to develop mesothelioma than women
Age	The risk of developing mesothelioma increases with age
Family history	Those with a family history of mesothelioma have a higher risk of developing the disease

Symptoms of Mesothelioma 🤒

The symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until several decades after exposure to asbestos, which makes it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma you have, and may include:

Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Persistent coughing

• Fatigue or weakness

• Loss of appetite or weight loss

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:

• Abdominal pain

• Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite or weight loss

Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms:

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Heart palpitations

Testicular Mesothelioma Symptoms:

• Swelling or lumps in the testicles

• Pain in the testicles

Treatment of Mesothelioma 💊

The treatment of mesothelioma depends on the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, and the overall health of the patient. The most common treatments for mesothelioma include:

Surgery:

Surgery is often used to remove tumors and affected tissue, and may be followed by radiation or chemotherapy.

Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy is a newer treatment that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

Mesothelioma FAQs 🙋

1. How long does it take to develop mesothelioma after asbestos exposure?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

2. Can you get mesothelioma from secondhand asbestos exposure?

Yes, individuals who were exposed to asbestos secondhand, such as through a family member’s work clothes, can develop mesothelioma.

3. Is mesothelioma curable?

Currently, there is no cure for mesothelioma, but treatments can help manage symptoms and extend patients’ lives.

4. Is there a test for mesothelioma?

Doctors may perform imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to diagnose mesothelioma, and may also perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

5. Is mesothelioma hereditary?

While there is no evidence to suggest that mesothelioma is directly hereditary, individuals with a family history of mesothelioma may have an increased risk of developing the disease.

6. Can mesothelioma be prevented?

Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that uses asbestos, follow proper safety protocols and wear protective gear.

7. Are there any experimental treatments for mesothelioma?

Yes, there are currently several experimental treatments for mesothelioma being studied, including gene therapy and targeted therapy.

Conclusion: Be Knowledgeable and Vigilant 💪

Now that you know more about mesothelioma, we hope that you will be better equipped to recognize the symptoms and take action if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past. Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment, so don’t hesitate to speak to a healthcare professional if you are experiencing any symptoms. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay healthy.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.