Mesothelioma Causes and Treatment
Mesothelioma causes stem from exposure to asbestos. Any workplace with some type of exposure to asbestos is considered a possible target for mesothelioma. For those who are exposed to it on a regular basis, the symptoms of mesothelioma may not show for years, as many may be mistaken for the common cold.
Mesothelioma is the most common cancer of the mesothelium, which is the tissue that covers the internal organs. The disease can also affect other parts of the body, but the most common sites are the chest, abdominal organs, and the back. Other areas can show up as well, including the pelvis, the abdomen, and the anus. However, if the cancer is found in these areas, the chances of spreading the disease will be higher than if it is found on the chest or abdominal organs.
Asbestos exposure is usually unintentional. It is often used in construction materials, construction equipment, and ceiling tiles. It can also be found in many asbestos-containing products such as fireproofing insulation and roofs. Regular daily exposure to asbestos may lead to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma causes include mesothelioma asbestos fibers that attach themselves to the lining of the lungs and lymph nodes. These fibers then produce scarring that eventually spread to other organs, the brain, and the abdominal organs. Some doctors believe that asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma throughout the body, rather than just one organ.
While most mesothelioma causes are mostly based on workplace exposure, there are other possible risk factors. Individuals who smoke, are exposed to chemicals and metals, and who have a family history of the disease are all more likely to get it. Because of this, individuals with any of these risk factors should make it a point to quit smoking and avoiding certain chemicals as much as possible.
Asbestos exposure is usually related to a loss of muscle tone and loss of control of the bowels and bladder. The disease can also affect the upper extremities, which can cause significant pain and debilitating bone fractures. However, because there is no cure for mesothelioma, it is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. In some cases, the cancer can be controlled completely. For others, the survival rate is poor, so treatment is an absolute must.
People who suffer from mesothelioma are given many different treatments. It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma causes based on symptoms alone. In some cases, an individual may be diagnosed after they have undergone surgery or are still suffering from debilitating symptoms. However, a number of symptoms point to asbestos exposure. Some of the most common symptoms include abdominal pain, constipation, fatigue, weight loss, neurological symptoms, leg pain, hearing loss, and increased levels of fluid in the blood.
Mesothelioma causes cannot be avoided entirely. However, it is important to know that the odds of getting it are low. If you are concerned about having it, make it a point to regularly monitor your health by visiting your doctor regularly. Not doing so may put you at risk of developing the disease.
