Mesothelioma is a deadly type of cancer. It starts in the organ linings. It tends to spread quite quickly after diagnosis. Anyone who knows they have previously had asbestos exposure could be at risk. Oftentimes, mesothelioma starts with job exposure. People exposed to asbestos at work are at risk of mesothelioma. Workers who handle asbestos could end up with mesothelioma decades later. Family members of those who work with asbestos are also at risk.
They may need to watch for warning signs of mesothelioma for years after their exposure. There are multiple different types of mesothelioma. Each type produces a distinct set of symptoms. The following are the most common types of mesothelioma.
There are four main types of mesothelioma
Many different organs have tissue lining them. That is where mesothelioma begins to grow. The cancer can form in many different locations in the human body. Once it has developed, it can spread to other parts of the body.
The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. This type starts in the lining of the lungs. People often experience a cough or shortness of breath. The cough could be quite painful for some people. They may lose weight. Some people develop lumps under the skin on their chests. Others notice chest pain.
Other people develop peritoneal mesothelioma. It starts in the abdomen. People may feel pain in their midsection. They may notice unexplained swelling. Some people lose weight. Others experience nausea.
It is less likely for mesothelioma to start in other parts of the body. Pericardial mesothelioma starts around the heart. People may have chest pains. Difficulty breathing is also another symptom. A small number of cases involve mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis around the testicles. Testicular irregularities as often the first warning sign in these cases.
Many of these early warning signs are generic. People who know about prior asbestos exposure must be diligent about any symptoms they develop. Being aware of mesothelioma symptoms can benefit anyone with prior asbestos exposure. A diagnosis with mesothelioma can affect someone’s finances as well as their health. Early detection can improve someone’s prognosis. They may also have an opportunity to seek compensation for the costs associated with this illness.
