-
Step 1
Learn the facts about mesothelioma; a form of cancer. Cancerous cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Mesothelioma can be a noncancerous or a cancerous tumor affecting the lining of the chest or abdomen area. With mesothelioma, cancerous cells found in the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or in any certain order. These cancerous cells can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs.Cancer cells can also spread from one area of the body to other parts of the body. Tumors can start in any of these areas. These tumors can be noncancerous or they can be cancerous mesotheliomas. The most common site for mesothelioma to occur is the outer lining of the lungs and chest cavity, but it may also occur in the the lining of the abdominal cavity or the sac that surrounds the heart.
-
Step 2
Working with asbestos is a major risk factor for developing mesothelioma. Asbestos has been used in many industrial products, some include cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. When the tiny asbestos particles float in the air, during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed. Others at risk for developing mesothelioma are family members and others living with asbestos workers. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. The risk of getting mesothelioma depends on how much asbestos a person was exposed to and for how long. To help prevent this disease, avoid contact with asbestos in homes, public buildings, and at work.
-
Step 3
Watch for early symptoms of mesothelioma which may not appear until many years later after exposure to asbestos. Early symptoms can be very general and sometimes overlooked. Signs and symptoms of pleural mesothelioma (lining of the chest) can include: pain in the lower back or at the side of the chest, shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, cough, fever, sweating, tiredness, weight loss, swelling of the face and arms, and muscle weakness.Signs and symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma (lining of the abdominal cavity) include: stomach pain, weight loss, nausea, vomiting and fluid or a lump in the abdomen. Other symptoms may include bowel and clotting abnormalities, anemia and fever. If mesothelioma has spread to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
-
Step 4
Discuss treatment options for mesothelioma with your doctor. Treatment may depend on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, age and overall general health. Treatment options often include surgery,radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined. Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue surrounding it. Radiation therapy kills cancer cells and shrinks tumors. Chemotherapy kills cancer cells throughout the body. The doctor will use an aggressive treatment for mesothelioma.
