Mesothelioma and asbestos Information

When people think of cancer that is caused by asbestos, they think about cancer that affects one specific part of the body. They think that Mesothelioma only affects the lungs, and only expect to see symptoms related to breathing. What they fail to realize is that Mesothelioma can affect multiple areas of the body.

It is important to fully understand the different types of Mesothelioma. If you have been exposed to asbestos, you need to know what you may be subject to. Your knowledge of these various types of Mesothelioma will help you to take the necessary precautions and checks for Mesothelioma.

Pleural

Pleural Mesothelioma is the most common form of Mesothelioma. This is the form of Mesothelioma that affects the lungs, drastically altering the abilities of sufferers to breathe. The Mesothelioma attaches itself to the protective layer of the lungs and chest cavity. This slowly deteriorates the breathing and general health of the patient. Symptoms of this form of Mesothelioma include difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, and constant chest pain.

Peritoneal

This form of Mesothelioma also affects a protective lining in the torso, this time in the abdominal cavity of the body. This protective lining helps to aid movement in the body. The growths on this layer restrict the movement of important organs including the stomach and intestines. Some of the symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma include abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, lumps in the abdomen, fatigue, anemia, and rapid and sudden weight loss.

Pericardial

While Pericardial Mesothelioma is rare, it is incredibly serious. This form of Mesothelioma actually restricts the movement of the heart, as the Mesothelioma affects the lining of the heart. It keeps the lining from producing the layer of mucus needed to keep the heart operating correctly. Symptoms for this form of Mesothelioma include cheat paints, heart murmurs, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and an irregular heartbeat.

Reproductive

This form of Mesothelioma affects the reproductive system, taking aim in the form of testicular Mesothelioma. This is the most rare form of the cancer; there are less than 100 known cases of Testicular Mesothelioma. This form of Mesothelioma shows itself in the form of growths on testicles. Treatment for this form of Mesothelioma generally requires that the patient have the testicle removed (or partially removed) while also undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

While all of the different types of Mesothelioma deal with growths on protective linings of organs, they all affect the body differently. You need to work to understand the types of Mesothelioma; this knowledge will help you to look for symptoms. When you notice symptoms, you can talk to your doctor, who will then perform the correct tests. Your ability to identify different types of Mesothelioma may help to add years to your life, should you come down with this form of cancer.