The Secret Secrets Of Mesothelioma And Asbestosis
Mesothelioma and Asbestosis Both diseases are triggered by asbestos exposure There are some significant differences between mesothelioma as well as asbestosis. Most importantly, mesothelioma is a cancer while asbestosis isn't. Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of certain organs and tissues, including the lungs (pleura) or the membrane that covers the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to other illnesses. This is due to the fact that asbestos-related diseases have a long latency period. orange asbestos attorneys and symptoms Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects mesothelium which is a layer of tissue that covers certain organs and cavities in the body. It is most often diagnosed in the lungs, however it can also grow in other areas of the body, like the stomach, heart and abdomen. The symptoms of mesothelioma differ depending on the type and stage of the disease. There are a few common symptoms such as chest pain, weight loss, persistent coughing and difficulty breathing. Patients with mesothelioma typically suffer from fatigue and anemia as well. Metastatic mesothelioma happens when the cancer spreads to other areas of your body. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately. Asbestosis usually results from years of exposure to asbestos fibres and dust. It is a slow-moving illness and, because of its lengthy latency, many people do not realize they have it for decades after exposure. Asbestosis isn't as harmful as mesothelioma because it isn't a cancerous condition. However, it can still cause lung problems and respiratory problems. Asbestos exposure is the root cause of both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis. The primary difference between these two diseases is mesothelioma which is a malignant tumor that grows in the mesothelium. Asbestosis, however, is not. A person suffering from mesothelioma pleural may experience a persistent non-productive cough, as well as chest wall pain. Some patients experience difficulty swallowing and their fingers can change shape. This is referred to as clubbing. Patients with pleural mesothelioma may also have an accumulation of abdominal fluid and abdomen, which is known as the ascites. Mesothelioma treatments are more aggressive and focus on extending life expectancy. Asbestosis is treated in a less intensive way. Asbestosis is treated to improve the quality of life and relieve symptoms. This includes draining fluid from the chest, which is known as thoracentesis, and utilizing medication to treat the pain. Mesothelioma patients are not eligible for lung transplants in the case of severe asbestosis cases. Mesothelioma patients also can receive palliative care that focuses on managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life. Diagnosis Inhaling asbestos fibres can cause many symptoms, including shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. However, these symptoms frequently appear to be similar to other ailments which makes them difficult to recognize until the illness has progressed. Asbestosis, a chronic lung condition that causes scarring in the respiratory system and lungs which makes it difficult for people to breathe. It can also affect other organs which can cause abdominal pain, swelling of fluids and changes in the shape of fingers and toes (finger clubbing). Both mesothelioma (a cancerous condition) and asbestosis are caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a class of minerals comprised of microscopic fibers. The exposure to asbestos is the cause of both conditions, however each has a distinct set of symptoms and a distinct duration of latency. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that develops in the mesothelium, which is a protective layer around certain organs and cavities within the body. It is located in the lungs, the heart and abdomen. Mesothelioma is more likely to form when a person has been exposed to asbestos in multiple places. To diagnose mesothelioma in patients, doctors will typically order chest X-rays and CT scans to look for visible signs of lung cancer. They may also take the biopsy to gain a better understanding of the kind of mesothelioma a patient has. There are several methods used to take a biopsy of the mesothelium such as a bronchoscopy needle biopsy, or video-assisted Thoracoscopy surgery. The type of biopsy required will depend on the location of the mesothelioma and the part of the mesothelium that it is situated in. The patient's symptoms and their exposure history can also be used to determine the presence of mesothelioma. Based on the type of cancer of cancer, patients can be treated with chemotherapy or radiation to relieve symptoms. In certain cases it is possible to use surgery to remove the affected tissue and reduce the size of the tumors. Currently, no cure is available for mesothelioma. However patients can receive palliative treatments to improve quality of life. Both mesothelioma and asbestosis have a high recurrence risk, even after the treatment is complete. It is therefore essential to have regular follow-up appointments. This is how mesothelioma specialists can detect any recurrences and track the progression of the disease. Treatment Both mesothelioma and asbestosis occur as a result of exposure to asbestos. They are incurable, but treatment options can prolong life for a long time. Mesothelioma is a cancer that occurs in the mesothelium, which is a layer of lung tissue, chest cavity and abdomen. Mesothelioma is different from lung cancer, but symptoms can resemble those of either disease. Asbestosis is not a common condition that results from prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. They irritate the lung tissue, leading to scarring that restricts breathing. Inhaling asbestos can also increase the risk of lung infections. Smoking accelerates the progression of the disease. If diagnosed with asbestosis, the doctor will inquire about symptoms and medical history and physically examine the patient, including taking a pulmonary exam. In certain instances the doctor may order chest X-rays and lung function tests. If mesothelioma is suspected the doctor will conduct a biopsy of pleural mesothelium to test for laboratory tests. The procedure involves inserting a needle in the abdomen or chest, withdrawing some of the fluid, and then checking it for indications of malignant cells. Based on the type of cancer treatment, either surgery or chemotherapy can be recommended. Removal of asbestos-laden tissues (known as pleurectomy or decortication) can improve the quality of life in asbestos-related patients, as well as reduce the severity of complications. A doctor can also drain the chest cavity of fluid through a procedure known as thoracentesis and, in certain instances performing an operation called pleurodesis in order to alleviate breathing problems caused by asbestosis and other diseases. Regular follow-up appointments and pulmonary rehab exercises can help patients manage breathing difficulties and other symptoms, in addition to pain relief therapies. They may also prescribe oxygen therapy and in certain cases, recommend the possibility of a lung transplant. People suffering from asbestos-related lung disease are at high risk for developing other health issues, such as cancer and heart disease. To lower the risk it is recommended that they stop smoking and stay current with vaccines for influenza and pneumonia. They should also call their doctor immediately in the event of shortness of breath, coughing or fever. Prognosis The inhalation of asbestos fibers triggers mesothelioma as well as a lung condition called asbestosis. Both diseases share the same symptoms, like chest discomfort, constant coughing and shortness of breathe. Mesothelioma, however is a cancer whereas asbestosis isn't. Mesothelioma and asbestosis both are incurable and may take decades to develop. The prognosis for mesothelioma is based on a variety of variables, including the stage, location and the type of cell. Epithelioid is the most frequent form, has a much better outlook than sarcomatoid or biphasic mesothelioma. Additionally, a patient's age and gender can influence their mesothelioma prognosis. Females and patients who are younger tend to have better outcomes than men. The latency time period also plays a major part in determining the mesothelioma diagnosis. The longer a person has been exposed to asbestos in the future, the more likely will develop symptoms. Typically, the latency period for mesothelioma is between 10 and 50 years after exposure. It is often difficult to recognize mesothelioma as it is extremely rare. This is especially so in the beginning stages when symptoms are more mild and may be misdiagnosed as a different condition. It is crucial that pathologists thoroughly review reports, and then request an additional opinion. Pleural effusions are a result of both mesothelioma (asbestosis) and mesothelioma. Pleural effusions can be an indication of both diseases but they are not life-threatening. The symptoms of asbestosis are similar to the symptoms of other lung diseases such as chronic obstruction of the lung (COPD). Asbestosis doesn't spread like mesothelioma and is not a form of cancer. Asbestosis sufferers may suffer from symptoms for a long time and may require oxygen therapy. Contact an advocate for patients or someone you love have questions about asbestosis or mesothelioma symptoms. We can help you locate an expert doctor to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan.