The leading cause of malignant mesothelioma is exposure to and inhalation of asbestos, a fibrous mineral commonly used and incorporated in a variety of materials to make them fireproof. Asbestos naturally occurs as microscopic fibers that can be easily inhaled, and can therefore lodge in the thin membrane lining the lungs called pleura, causing malignant neoplasm within, leading to pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of mesothelioma. Other types include pericardial (surrounding the heart) and peritoneal (surrounding the abdominal cavity) malignant mesothelioma.

Early symptoms of mesothelioma cancer include chest pain, though some patients may be asymptomatic with the disease being discovered in the late stage by an abnormal chest x-ray and physical exam and diagnosed by thoracoscopy (for pleural mesothelioma), peritoneoscopy or laparoscopy (for peritoneal mesothelioma) and biopsy. In the late stages of the disease, symptoms may include progressive shortness of breath, night sweats, and weight loss due to poor appetite.

Prognosis for mesothelioma patients may be favorable if the disease is detected early, but since this disease is often times discovered in its late stages, prognosis is rarely good. Mesothelioma is difficult to treat. As most cancers, treatment options for this disease would traditionally include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, with patients commonly opting to undergo a combination of these, depending on the stage of mesothelioma they have. Sadly, for many mesothelioma patients, a cure is not possible though some survivors of this deadly disease have proven that curing illnesses can go beyond medical treatment with prognosis becoming better with other alternative forms of therapy. Traditionally though, mesothelioma treatment is centered on palliative therapy.

Asbestos was extensively utilized in many building and industrial materials, together with siding panels, roof shingles, mortar, flooring and insulation. Asbestos containing materials nonetheless exist in lots of homes. Right here are some EPA suggestions for coping with asbestos across the home:

Leave asbestos alone. Usually, materials in good condition won’t release asbestos fibers. The hazard happens when fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs. For a list of materials that presumably comprise asbestos, go to http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/

Examine asbestos-containing material often for visible indicators of wear and tear with out touching it.

Typically restrict activities in any areas having damaged asbestos material.

Particularly, keep kids away from such areas.

Keep away from sweeping, or vacuuming particles which will comprise asbestos. Additionally keep away from sanding, scraping, or drilling holes in supplies that presumably comprise asbestos.

Have elimination and major repair carried out by individuals educated and certified in dealing with asbestos. It’s highly advisable that sampling, cleaning and minor repair even be carried out by asbestos professionals.

If you have to discard asbestos materials, check with local health, environmental, or different applicable officers for correct handling and disposal procedures.

For more information on coping with asbestos, please go to http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/

Anyone that is suffering from symptoms should go to see their doctor immediately. The sooner you see the physician, the better your prognosis may be. If the mesothelioma is caught quick enough, you may be a candidate for surgery. There are several surgical options that can be given. Over the years, surgery has been perfected and gives the patient a better chance at survival. If you wait to long though the prognosis will go down.

If you are in stage 3 or 4, you will not be a candidate for surgery.

Radiation therapy, can be used by itself or in tandem with surgery. It is sometimes used along with chemotherapy treatment. The patient may also be given radiation treatments if they are unable to tolerate chemotherapy. The treatments usually last five days a week for five weeks. The best results from radiation, are a relief from the symptoms that are present. Chemotherapy, will also relieve symptoms. It can be given in a pill form or injected. The doctor will also give a prescription to help with the side effects of the chemo.

There are several clinical trials underway that you may qualify for as a candidate. With these trials you will get extra care and the newest treatment from the physician. You may also find better treatment and at a reduced cost and your pain may be greatly relieved. Unfortunately there can sometimes be drawbacks to clinical trials. There can be unexpected side effects when you are in a clinical trial. Also, even though the trial may work on some people it may not be successful for you. The site of the clinical trial may be quite a distance away and cause quite an inconvenience. There is a chance that your insurance company may not pay for the treatment.

One thing, that is important to remember about mesothelioma, is not to ignore the symptoms. If you are at risk due to asbestos exposure, do not ignore any symptoms. Call your doctor immediately, so you can discuss your options and receive treatment immediately.