Let’s Take a Look at Mesothelioma…

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that occurs in a type of internal tissue called mesothelium, the sac-like tissue that covers most internal organs. Depending on where the cancer forms, patients suffering from mesothelioma may develop pleural mesothelioma which affects the tissue surrounding the lungs or perhaps the version occurring in the abdomen – peritoneal mesothelioma. In rare cases, this disease can attack areas around the heart or even the testicles.

Indications of pleural mesothelioma may include painful coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pains under the rib cage. Peritoneal mesothelioma may outwardly manifest itself as abdominal pain and swelling, possibly with lumps of tissue forming under the skin in the area. Unexplained weight loss also accompanies mesothelioma.

Now, contrary to some who would confidently say that asbestos exposure or inhalation is the cause of mesothelioma, I must politely point out all that cancer is generally never attributed to one concrete factor. Exposure to asbestos is a significant risk factor as related to mesothelioma, but other health and/or environmental factors usually come into play as well. It is also important to note that not everyone who comes into contact with asbestos develops mesothelioma but asbestos health monitoring is critical. Even so, it is critical to know where this substance can be found and how to protect yourself from exposure if possible.

Asbestos is actually a naturally-occurring compound found in the earth. Then, somewhere along the line, manufacturing scientists discovered that asbestos was quite resistant to heat and chemical exposure. That made it a perfect element to incorporate into many building construction materials – things like insulation materials, vinyl flooring, shingles, and home siding. While you may come in contact with these items, you are not necessarily rubbing them on your skin or touching them to your face. Unfortunately, some fire retardant blankets and clothing may contain asbestos fibers. It is important to be an informed consumer, so that you make conscious choices in terms of what you buy for your family.

If you know someone who works with these materials on a regular basis, make sure they always use proper protocol when handling the items. Being properly educated about mesothelioma and its possible causes is the first step to keeping you and your loved ones healthy and safe from unseen dangers. 

There is hope and you can survive mesothelioma – see more at http://survivingmesothelioma.com/.   It is survivable – however it is often difficult to catch.  There is not one symptom or a specific set of symptoms that tell you the condition is mesothelioma.  Maybe you all of a sudden have serious arm pain; or sudden unexplained weakness; shortness of breath; severe headaches – the fact is anything that is sudden and serious – do not ignore!  Appropriate testing is needed to diagnose your symptoms.  Catch any illness/disease as early as possible.  

See Also: Cancer Survival Through Natural Cancer Treatments