limitfreeze18

Mesothelioma and Asbestosis While both diseases are caused by exposure to asbestos There are some significant differences between mesothelioma as well as asbestosis. Mesothelioma on the other hand, is a cancer. Mesothelioma can develop in the linings of particular organs or tissues, for example the membranes that surround the abdominal cavity, as well as the lungs. It can be difficult to identify mesothelioma since symptoms resemble those of other diseases. This is because asbestos-related illnesses have a lengthy latency. Signs and symptoms Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a layer of tissue that surrounds certain organs and cavities within the body. It typically begins in the lungs, however it may also develop in other parts of the body, like the stomach, the heart and abdomen. The symptoms of mesothelioma vary according to the stage and type of the disease. However, there are typical symptoms, like difficulties breathing, persistent coughing, weight loss and chest pains. Anemia and fatigue are the most typical symptoms of mesothelioma. Metastatic mesothelioma occurs when the cancer spreads to other areas of your body. It is important to consult your doctor if you notice any of the symptoms listed above. Asbestosis usually results from years of exposure to asbestos dust and fibres. It is a slow-moving illness and, due to its long duration of latency, many people do not realize they have it for years after exposure. Asbestosis isn't as hazardous as mesothelioma, since it doesn't spread. However, it can still cause lung problems and respiratory problems. Asbestos exposure is a cause of both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis. The main difference between these two diseases is that mesothelioma is a malignant cancer that develops in the mesothelium, while asbestosis isn't. A person suffering from pleural cancer can experience a constant cough that is not productive and chest pain. Some patients have difficulty swallowing, and their fingers may change shape. This is referred to as clubbing. Patients with pleural mesothelioma may also have a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, which is called ascites. Mesothelioma treatment is more aggressive, and focuses on increasing the life duration. Asbestosis treatment is done in a less intensive manner. Asbestosis treatment is intended to improve the quality of life and relieve symptoms. This involves taking the fluid out of the chest through a procedure called thoracentesis, and using pain medication. Asbestosis victims can even be treated for severe cases with lung transplants, but this is not an option for mesothelioma patients. Kent asbestos lawyer is available to mesothelioma sufferers, which is focused on controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. Diagnosis Asbestos fibres inhalation can cause many symptoms, including shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. These symptoms can be difficult to determine because they can mimic other conditions. Asbestosis is a progressive lung disease that causes scarring of the respiratory tract and lungs, making it harder to breathe. It can also affect the other organs causing abdominal discomfort, fluid buildup and changes in the shape of the finger and toe shape (finger clubbing). Mesothelioma and asbestosis are both caused by exposure to asbestos, which is a class of minerals composed of micro-sized fibres. Both diseases are caused by this exposure, but they exhibit different symptoms and have a distinct time of latency. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, which is a protective layer that surrounds specific organs and cavities of the body. It is located on the lungs, the heart and abdomen. Mesothelioma is more likely to develop when the patient was exposed to asbestos in several locations. To determine if mesothelioma is present, doctors will typically order chest X-rays and CT scans to check for visible signs of lung cancer. They may also perform a biopsy to gain a better understanding of the kind of mesothelioma the patient has. There are a variety of ways to conduct a mesothelium biopsies that include needle biopsy, bronchoscopy, or video-assisted surgery. The type of biopsy required will depend on the location where mesothelioma has been found and what part of the lining of the pleura it is located in. The patient's symptoms and their history of exposure to radiation can be used to identify mesothelioma. Based on the type of mesothelioma, patients may be treated with chemotherapy or radiation to alleviate symptoms. In some cases it is possible to use surgery to remove the affected tissue and decrease the size of the tumors. There is no cure for mesothelioma at this moment, however patients can receive palliative treatment to improve their quality of life. Mesothelioma and asbestosis both carry the potential for recurrence, even after treatment is completed. This is why it is essential to keep regular follow-up appointments. This is where mesothelioma specialists can detect any recurrences and track the progression of the disease. Treatment Both mesothelioma as well as asbestosis happen as a result of exposure to asbestos. Although they are incurable, treatment options can prolong life for decades. Mesothelioma can be found in the mesothelium that covers the lungs and chest cavity. Mesothelioma differs from lung cancer, but symptoms can be similar to those of either disease. Asbestosis is not a common disease that is caused by long-term exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. They can irritate lung tissue and cause scarring, which can make breathing difficult. Asbestos inhalation increases the risk of lung infections. Smoking causes the condition to progress more rapidly. A doctor will assess the patient and listen to the lungs if asbestosis is diagnosed. In certain instances the doctor may order lung-function tests and chest X-rays. If mesothelioma is suspected, the doctor will take a biopsy of the pleural mesothelium to test for laboratory tests. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the chest or abdomen and removing some of the fluid, and then examining it for indications of malignant cells. Based on the type of cancer treatment, either surgery or chemotherapy can be recommended. The surgical removal of asbestos-laden tissue (also known as pleurectomy or decortication) can improve the quality of life of those suffering from severe asbestosis and lessen the degree of complications. A doctor can also take the fluid out of the chest (a process called thoracentesis) and, in certain cases, perform a surgical procedure called pleurodesis to ease breathing difficulties caused by asbestosis or other ailments. In addition to pain-relieving treatments doctors can also help patients manage their breathing problems and other symptoms with regular follow-up appointments and exercise for pulmonary rehabilitation. They can also prescribe oxygen therapy, and in some cases it is recommended to have the possibility of a lung transplant. Lung disease caused by asbestos are at risk of developing other health issues like cancer and heart disease. To decrease the risk of developing these diseases it is recommended that they stop smoking and be current with vaccines for influenza and pneumonia. They should also consult their doctor immediately in the event of coughing, shortness of breath or fever. Prognosis Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma, as well as asbestosis, a lung condition. Both illnesses have similar symptoms, including chest pain as well as persistent coughing and breath shortness. But mesothelioma is a cancer but asbestosis isn't. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are both incurable and can take years to develop. Mesothelioma prognosis is based on a variety of factors, including the severity of the disease and the location of the tumors, and the type of cells. Epithelioid mesothelioma, which is the most prevalent type, has a better prognosis than sarcomatoid and biphasic varieties. The prognosis of mesothelioma could also be affected by a patient's gender and age. Females and patients who are younger tend to have a better prognosis than men. The latency period plays a crucial role in determining a mesothelioma diagnosis. The longer someone is exposed to asbestos in the future, the more likely will develop symptoms. Typically, the time of latency for mesothelioma varies between 10 and 50 years after exposure. It can be difficult to recognize mesothelioma as it is so rare. This is especially evident in the initial stages, when symptoms are less severe and can be misdiagnosed as other diseases. It is essential to ensure that doctors thoroughly study pathology reports, and then request an additional opinion. Both asbestosis and mesothelioma cause a fluid accumulation in the lungs, which is known as an the pleural effusion. Pleural effusions can be a sign of the two diseases, but they are not life-threatening. The symptoms of asbestosis are similar to the symptoms of other lung diseases, including chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Asbestosis does not spread like mesothelioma, and is not a form of cancer. However, someone suffering from asbestosis will continue to experience symptoms and it is possible that they will eventually require oxygen therapy. Contact an advocate for patients if you or someone you know is unsure regarding mesothelioma and asbestosis symptoms. We can help you locate an expert doctor to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan.