You may have watched the commercials to contact a lawyer if you have mesothelioma -- a type of cancer caused by asbestos. Commercials give you the sense that this is a serious disease and it is generally the fault of someone else. However, this information alone doesn't give you any real answers or a clear picture of what it means when you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that is typically caused by exposure to asbestos, a material that was very popular because of its ability to resist heat and fire. While asbestos is a common fiber found floating in the air, the levels are so low that it is not considered to be harmful. Unfortunately, when it is found in high concentrations, it can cause serious damage.
According to the United States National Cancer Institute, mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is membrane that surrounds your internal organs. The Institute also notes that those who are at a higher risk of mesothelioma are, of course, asbestos minors, shipyard workers, and people who work in the heating and construction industries.
Who gets Mesothelioma?
The longer you work in an asbestos-saturated environment, the higher the risk of developing some form of cancer or other health related problem. It can take up to 50 years after exposure before symptoms appear.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Some common symptoms can be weight loss, difficulty in breathing, persistent cough, possible chest pain, obstruction of the bowl, anemia, abnormal blood clotting, abdominal pain, and fever. Of course these symptoms can point to a variety of diseases making mesothelioma difficult to diagnose.
Diagnosis and Treatment of of Mesothelioma
To date, there is not cure for mesothelioma, though there is a variety of treatments that can be recommended as well as the option to be part of a clinical trial. The difficulty is that by the time the disease is suspected or diagnosed, the cancer has generally already progressed into a late stage of development. If you know you have been exposed to asbestos, it is very important that you discuss this with your doctor immediately so that steps can be taken before symptoms appear.
Getting Support
Of course, once you have been diagnosed, it is important to reach out to others. There are support groups online that can help you navigate the different options you have regarding treatment, keeping on top of new developments and general support or resources. The Mesothelioma Center can be a good place to start. While it can be challenging to find a support group due to the low number of people diagnosed each year, it's well worth the effort.
Advice for Caregivers
Looking for support is not only important for the person diagnosed with the disease, but also for the caregivers. In most cases the caregivers are family members who are not trained and are also under the emotional strain of watching their loved one suffer. It's very important that the caregivers reach out for help or they may find themselves overwhelmed by the physical and emotional stress.
As a caregiver, it's important to be willing to delegate responsibilities and take care of yourself by eating properly and getting appropriate rest. It is vital to seek out a support group that is local who can assist you with not just care, but for daily activities or just to allow you some time on a regular basis to take some time for yourself.
As someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, fear and uncertainty can be overwhelming. Make the most of each day and don't let fear or depression rob you of the joy of living each day to the fullest. Ask questions and don't be afraid to seek out second and third opinions on every treatment course.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Resources and References
Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers
National Cancer Institute
