Every type of cancer is different. Some are more aggressive than others. Most types of cancer respond well to treatment. Not all of them do. Mesothelioma is a deadly type of cancer. It is dangerous for several reasons. First, there is no cure for mesothelioma. Treatment can slow its growth. Sadly, doctors cannot cure mesothelioma as they can cure other cancers. It is also hard to diagnose.
Even those who know they are at risk can overlook symptoms. The early warning signs of mesothelioma can be generic. They can also develop in places people don’t expect.
In the lungs
Most people associate mesothelioma with the respiratory system. Mesothelioma grows in the lining of organs. It may start in the tissue surrounding the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma begins around the lungs and may spread elsewhere. The vast majority of mesothelioma cases begin in the lungs. The symptoms may seem like the same symptoms colds generate.
People may have chest pain and a cough. Others report shortness of breath. The symptoms may last for months. They may also get worse over time. Eventually, the mesothelioma may spread to other parts of the body.
In the abdomen
There are numerous organs in the abdomen. Mesothelioma can start developing around any of them. Doctors refer to this as peritoneal mesothelioma. The symptoms are different from pleural cases. People may experience abdominal pain or swelling. They may lose weight without trying. They may also experience frequent nausea. Peritoneal mesothelioma can be harder to identify at first.
Around the heart
The tissue around the heart can be vulnerable too. Pericardial mesothelioma grows near the heart. The early symptoms of this cancer are easy to overlook. People may have difficulty breathing or chest pains. The lack of other symptoms may stop them from seeing a doctor. In a small percentage of cases, mesothelioma starts in the testicles. Anyone who worked with asbestos needs to watch for any potential warning signs of cancer.
They may also need help requesting mesothelioma compensation. Compensation can help pay for treatment. It can also help support surviving family members. Workers who are at risk of cancer may need help taking action after a diagnosis. Seeking legal support is a good way to start.
