How do i know if i have mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer. This cancer attacks a certain tissue called mesothelium. This tissue surrounds your internal organs, such as your lungs and heart. Mesothelioma often progresses aggressively. If it is treated early enough, your surgeon may be able to remove the cancer. When it is diagnosed in the later stages, treatment is often ineffective. Don't hesitate to see your doctor if you feel sick.

Risk Factors

Evaluate your possible risk factors for mesothelioma. According to the Mayo Clinic, if your work environment exposes you to asbestos, you have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. This is particularly true if you have been exposed to them for a long time or if you were exposed to them when you were young. You may also be at risk if you live with someone who is exposed to asbestos. Smoking and a family history of mesothelioma also increase your risk. Other factors are exposure to radiation and to the simian virus (SV40), which is carried by monkeys.

Symptoms

There are different types of mesothelioma, depending on exactly which bodily tissues are diseased. The cancer that strikes the tissue surrounding your lungs is known as pleural malignant mesothelioma. Symptoms of this type of cancer include dry and painful cough, unusual lumps on your chest, chest pain (that occurs under your rib cage), unusual weight loss, shortness of breath and painful breathing. The Mayo Clinic notes that this is the most common type of this cancer. Other possible signs of mesothelioma may include lumps on your abdomen, abdominal pain or swelling and unusual bowel behavior (such as constipation or diarrhea).

Diagnosis

If you suspect that you may be ill, see your doctor. She can provide an accurate diagnosis or inform you if your symptoms are caused by another medical condition. Your doctor will perform a physical examination first. He may take X-rays or a CT scan. If he suspects that you have mesothelioma, he will request a tissue biopsy. The Mayo Clinic states that this is the only way to confirm that you have mesothelioma. If your doctor diagnoses you with mesothelioma, carefully consider your treatment options.

Source:

The Mayo Clinic: Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma.com

Resource:

National Cancer Institute: Mesothelioma Q & A

Medline Plus: Mesothelioma