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Step 1
First you must know what asbestos cancer mesothelioma is. This type of cancer affects mesothelial cells and is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Mesothelial cells line various organs and cavities throughout our bodies. When asbestos is airborne, it can be inhaled into the lungs and get trapped in the thin protective mesothelial layer of the lungs, abdomen, heart.
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Step 2
Know the different types of asbestos cancer mesothelioma. There are 3 main types of mesothelioma due to asbestos and these are pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, and pericardial mesothelioma. Pleural affects the lining of the lungs (pleura), peritoneal affects the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), and pericardial affects the lining around the heart (pericardium).
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Step 3
Recognize the symptoms of asbestos cancer mesothelioma. The symptoms will vary depending on a variety of different factors but if the cancer is in the lungs, patients will suffer from breathing difficulties, possibly coughing up blood, persistent pain in the chest, weight loss, fever, difficulty swallowing, and a persistent cough. If the patient is suffering from asbestos cancer mesothelioma of the abdomen, some common symptoms include a mass in the abdomen, abdominal pain or swelling, fever, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and anemia. Some common symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include irregular heartbeat, chest pain, cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and fever.
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Step 4
In order to conclusively identify asbestos cancer mesothelioma, you must visit an oncologist for a full examination. This should include x-rays, MRI or CT scan, and a biopsy. A biopsy is necessary for a conclusive diagnosis of mesothelioma.
Comments
roseanne09 said
on 5/21/2009 great article!! 5Stars
devoneej said
on 5/20/2009 THIS IS A GREAT ARTICLE!!!! 5* AND RECCMD. VERY INFORMATIVE.
clemsonsher said
on 5/20/2009 Good article!