Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and abdomen, often emerging decades after exposure to occupational hazards. Here are the seven main symptoms!
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelia, which are layers of cells that line internal organs such as the lungs, heart and abdomen. This rare but serious disease is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber once widely used in construction, shipping and other industries for its insulating and heat-resistant properties.
Cause
The link between asbestos and mesothelioma is well documented. Asbestos fibers, if inhaled or ingested, can lodge in the lungs or stomach and cause long-term damage. In addition to direct exposure, the risk of mesothelioma can also be transmitted indirectly, for example through contaminated work clothes. Although the use of asbestos has been significantly reduced or banned in many countries, cases of mesothelioma can appear even decades after exposure.
Symptoms
Here are seven common symptoms of mesothelioma, especially its most common form, pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs:
Chest pain: This pain is often severe and persistent, located under the ribs.
Persistent cough: A dry, nonproductive cough that does not seem to improve with time.
Dyspnea: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or while lying down.
Unexplained weight loss: Significant weight loss for no apparent reason.
Fatigue: A feeling of extreme tiredness and lack of energy that is not relieved by rest.
Accumulation of fluid in the chest (pleural effusion): It can lead to increased breathing difficulties and further chest pain.
Fever and night sweats: These symptoms may occur without an obvious infectious cause.
Symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the specific location of the cancer and can be similar to those of other less serious conditions, making a thorough medical evaluation important for a correct diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing mesothelioma may require a series of tests, including X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and biopsies. These tests help determine the location and extent of the cancer. A biopsy, which involves taking a sample of tissue for analysis, is essential to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is a serious and often aggressive cancer linked primarily to exposure to asbestos. While diagnosis can be challenging due to how slowly symptoms develop, treatment options such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and newer therapies such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy offer hope for improvement and management of the disease. An early diagnosis and a personalized therapeutic approach are essential to optimize outcomes and improve the quality of life of mesothelioma patients.