Mesothelioma and Asbestosis – The Symptoms and Signs We All Should Look Out For

Asbestosis is known to be a non cancerous, chronic illness caused by exposure to asbestos. Exposure to asbestos tends to increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma and non malignant lung and pleural disorders. The risk here depends on duration, concentration, frequency, and the type of asbestos fibers. The diseases that manifest from asbestos exposure take a long time to develop. Most cases of asbestosis happen in asbestos workers fifteen or more years after initial exposure to asbestos. Smoking significantly increases the likelihood of lung cancer in workers exposure to asbestos (however, smoking does not appear to increase the risk of this disease).

Mesothelioma or Asbestos Cancer
This is an uncommon cancer which may affect the lining of your lung (pleura), the abdominal cavity (peritoneum) and the pericardial in the perdicardium or lining surrounding the heart. This type of cancer is mostly caused due to exposure to asbestos. This is diagnosed 30 years or more after the first exposure to asbestos. It occurs more often in men than in women and the risk increases with age.

The Symptoms and Sign
Shortness of breath (this is the primary symptom)
A cracking sound in the lungs while inhaling
A persistent and productive cough
Chest pain
Chest tightness
Loss of appetite/weight loss

Diagnosis
Chest X-rays are the most common method of detecting asbestos related disorders.
There is history of exposure to asbestos.

Other tests include:
CT scan
Pulmonary Function Tests
Physical Examination
Biopsy
Biopsy/Bronchoscopy

Treatment
The treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, as well as the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These treatments can some times be combined when necessary.

Get Help From a Professional
Only a doctor can make the diagnosis of mesothelioma. It is very important to talk to an experienced doctor, if by any chance you have been exposed to asbestos and have any symptoms.