Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Mesothelioma and Asbestosis Hard to Diagnosis in Asbestos Exposed Smokers

Mesothelioma and asbestosis, the scarring diseases caused from asbestos exposure, typically take years to fester within a body before symptoms become visible. Filling your lungs with smoke if you've been exposed to asbestos will hasten asbestos disease and expose you to additional medical testing to properly diagnose your disease. It will also take years off of your life.

Asbestos and smoke are a deadly combination that hastens the onset of painful and fatal lung cancers.

Lung diseases such as asbestosis, pulmonary fibrosis, pleural disease, lung cancer and mesothelioma are caused by asbestos. The symptoms of these asbestos caused diseases are so similar to the lung diseases and cancers caused by smoking, that proper diagnosis is difficult. Treatment for mesothelioma or other asbestos caused diseases begin too late because of earlier misdiagnosis. With most cancers, and mesothelioma treatment in particular, early diagnosis and treatment is crucial to survival. A late diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma because an asbestos caused disease was mistaken for a smoking-related disease can take years off of your life, and lead to harsh and painful living during your last few years.

Medical research has also shown that smoking will hasten the attack of mesothelioma because of the internal damage caused by the toxic elements of cigarettes. Cigarette toxins eat away at your lungs. Asbestos fibers can then gain early entry into your vulnerable lungs and quickly take over or assist the cigarette toxins in creating your lung disease or cancer. Not smoking will not protect you from asbestos disease or mesothelioma, but it can reduce the severity and pain of mesothelioma and other asbestos caused diseases - and add years on to your life. If you don't smoke and you have had exposure to asbestos, diagnosis will be swifter and you will be subject to less medical testing. Your chances of developing secondary lung diseases are substantially reduced.

Mesothelioma symptoms and lung disease symptoms from smoking typically both start with shortness of breath and trouble breathing. A productive cough typically follows, and the shortness of breath and the productive cough slowly worsen and persist. Because mesothelioma symptoms progress slowly, there is time to make a proper diagnosis if early treatment is sought. If the symptoms are ignored and are merely accepted as a side-effect of smoking, the disease has more time to become uncontrollable, and the asbestos disease will soon have control over you.

Mesothelioma affects the lining of internal organs, in a membrane called the mesothelium - hence the cancer name mesothelioma. This membrane does not affect just your lungs, it can affect most of your internal organs. Once mesothelioma symptoms of the lungs surface, such as breathing difficulties and productive coughs, the next step is typically an attack around the heart. Mesothelioma symptoms will then include chest pain, along with respiratory problems. This too can be misinterpreted as a sign of a smoking related disease, or a sign of old age or other heart and lung ailments. Mesothelioma is rare, and doctors will test according to the most likely disease to occur based on the symptoms. Because of that, it is very important to mention to your doctor your exposure to asbestos at your first visit.

Mesothelioma symptoms are slow to surface, and difficult to diagnose. Smoking while being exposed to asbestos will make proper diagnosis of mesothelioma difficult, and proper treatment may come too late to be of any benefit other than pain reduction and respiratory control. Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by asbestos, not cigarettes - but cigarettes will make your mesothelioma worse. Don't let the fibers of asbestos and the toxins of cigarettes team up on your lungs. Quit smoking and stay away from asbestos. If you must be exposed to asbestos, wear proper protection and don't smoke. Don't rush the disease, diagnose it. And you can't diagnose the disease fast enough unless you quit smoking.

The website provides mesothelioma information, such as

mesothelioma symptoms, mesothelioma treatments and mesothelioma stages. The site also provided details

information about different type of mesothelioma: Malignant Mesothelioma, Pleural Mesothelioma, Pericardial mesothelioma and Peritoneal mesothelioma.

Brand Smith

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Asbestos, Mesothelioma, Cancer and Metal Workers - The Facts

Asbestos was once marveled as the "miracle fiber" of the 20th century. Its heat and fire resistant properties made it an obvious choice for use in places where extremely high temperatures were part of job. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in the metal working industry. Plants that manufacture steel and aluminum often used asbestos in a number of different applications to help protect against fire and heat. The use of asbestos in this industry probably saved many lives, but that is no excuse to ignore the harmful and hazardous attributes of asbestos, or the mesothelioma cancer that is linked to it.

Some workers in these plants even wore asbestos clothing to help combat the extremely high temperatures. Asbestos was used to make pants, shirts, gloves, and even face masks. Cancer is linked to this type of close exposure to asbestos. Such exposure is extremely dangerous and made it very easy for the average worker to inhale hazardous asbestos fibers.

If you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos by a career in metal works it is important to be examined by a doctor for possible asbestos related problems and mesothelioma cancer. Early detection of mesothelioma and other asbestos related ailments can drastically change the prognosis for the affected individual and offer physicians a much wider variety of treatment options.

It is important to learn the facts and risks and mesothelioma, cancer and asbestos. Ask your doctor if you have concerns, or look for more information online. Don't become a victim to this deathly substance.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Prolonged Exposure to Inhaling Asbestos Can and Has Been Proven Fatal

Exposure to Asbestos can result in serious medical complications for its victims. In many cases, the results of prolonged exposure to inhaling asbestos can, and have been proven fatal.

There are strict government regulations regarding a persons exposure to asbestos. Exposure should not exceed a level of 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter in an eight hour period and should not exceed a level of 1.0 fiber per cubic centimeter in a 30 minute period. Some asbestos fibers can stay air born for up to three days.

Asbestos lawyers Los Angeles, upon determining whether a company is responsible, by negligence, which in turn causes you bodily harm due to overexposure to asbestos, will assist you in getting a compensation settlement you deserve.

Lung fibrosis and mesothelioma, a form of cancer, are just two of the most serious results due to prolonged exposure to asbestos.

Settlement amounts awarded have reached into the thousands, even millions of dollars. But, these dollar amounts can vary greatly from state to state and can also depend on the severity of the damages to the victim as an end result to prolonged exposure to asbestos.

Victims of lung fibrosis or mesothelioma need to act quickly after being diagnosed. Different states may have different time limitations in which to file a case. An expert lawyer in the field of dealing with asbestos cases will be well aware of these statute of limitations. Along with the experience in determining every aspect of your case such as:

• Gathering and studying all medical records showing that you indeed are a victim of asbestos exposure.

Determining whether your prolonged exposure to asbestos was due to negligence on the part of your employer or the company you were working for at the time. Negligence, perhaps meaning that an employer was quite aware of the asbestos but neglected to inform you as a worker.

• Your attorney will negotiate with your employer/company and their insurance company. Keep in mind that most employers and their insurance companies will most likely want to settle on amount to avoid going to court.

• Your attorney will calculate the life-long effects that a victim may have. This indeed can determine the amount of compensation.

Asbestos is not just an occupational hazard.

Your family and people around you can suffer the same disease from exposure. Workers who are not properly outfitted when working with or around asbestos can bring these fibers home on their clothing. This in turn means that people around you are breathing in these fibers. The consequences can be just as deadly over a period of time.

Read more why it's critical to hire the right cancer lawyer. Your attorney must specialize in asbestos cancer. Hiring the wrong asbestos lawyer has cost some folks millions. Read these asbestos lawyer reviews.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Asbestos, Cancer, and Shipyard Workers

Asbestos exposure can happen in a number of different methods, but most people are exposed to asbestos through workplace or jobsite exposure. There are several different occupations that may increase the risk of exposure to asbestos. Construction and power plant workers, along with metal workers and demolition crews are among those who have an elevated risk of exposure to asbestos. Cancer, and the risk of exposure associated with these professions pales in comparison to risk of cancer and of exposure experienced by shipbuilders and other shipyard workers.

For decades, asbestos was used to insulate various portions of ships. The product's natural insulative and fire-proofing qualities made it a logical choice for this use. Asbestos was used to coat steam pipes, incinerators, and boilers among other high-temperature parts of ships.

Prior to the mid-1970s most workers were unaware of the possible dangers of asbestos exposure and often worked with the material in poorly ventilated areas with little or no protection from the hazardous fibers.

A study conducted by the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine found that 86% of shipyard workers with over 20 years in the field were affected by some form of asbestos-related illness. Asbestos, cancer, and other health complications are now considered to be directly linked.

If you or a loved worked in a shipyard during the time that asbestos was commonly used, between WWII and the Korean War, it is important to be tested. It can take decades for symptoms and ailments to arise from exposure to asbestos, but as with most with most illness early detection can have an enormous impact on the prognosis of the affected individual.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Human Genome Project For Lung Cancer

The human genome project was started to map the human genome right until the nucleotide level and then identify all the human genes. The genome of human beings is the human genome. A Genome is a full set of chromosomes. Studying this genome can result in a lot of findings that can be applied to cure diseases. One of the primary beneficiaries of this is that the biological changes due to any disease in the genome can be found out and hence therapy can be formulated to battle against cancer due to results from the human genome project for lung cancer.

A study which was the human genome Project for lung cancer was recently conducted by a group of international scientists to study the underlying effects on genes when you have lung cancer. They were effectively trying to map the genetic changes to the lung cancer. The results of this study indicate the presence of a number of undiscovered genes in the lung cancer cells. Apart from this the scientists discovered a critical gene alteration. This provides more targets for therapy. Apart from the increased potential to formulate new strategies for therapy, this increases the knowledge of the biology of lung cancer and thus will be able to answer the question "how does lung cancer begin?" It has served to find the missing pieces of the puzzle and this research is beneficial for other types of cancers too. This is because the findings from this series of tests indicate a general procedure that should be followed for other types of cancer as well.

It is known that lung cancer arises from changes in the DNA that accrue throughout a person's life. Hence studying the human genes and mapping the changes to lung cancer allows the researchers to find out the specific changes that occur in the genes that contribute to lung cancer. It is because of the lack of this knowledge that researchers are not able to find better treatment for cancer. The Human Genome Project for Lung Cancer attempts to bridge this divide and thus make discoveries that can be translated to effective therapy for lung cancer patients. The study conducted by these international scientists has managed to pinpoint the exact gene that regulates the activity of cancer cells. This is a huge step towards understanding the genetic alterations and the effect it has on the cancer. The key goal is to identify vulnerabilities in the cancer cells so that it can be taken advantage of while trying to remove cancer cells from the body. This is possible only by learning as much as possible about the cancer by pinpointing specific genetic changes in the lung. This helps in the drug formulations. With the knowledge that only a select group of cells control cancerous growth, drugs can formulated to specifically target those group of cells hence making the drug extremely effective in removing cancer cells.

This study was just a pilot project for the bigger study to follow. The next Human Genome Project for lung cancer study will try to unearth all the possible genetic causes of lung cancer. The results expected from the next project are expected to be comprehensive and to enhance the knowledge about the genetic causes of lung cancer. It can increase the number of general facts on lung cancer.

You can visit our website for more information about Cancer and Sarcoma. We have a lot of articles about Lung Cancer, Ovarian Cancer, Sarcoma Muscle Cancer, ...

Karl Dorads

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Understanding the Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which affects individuals who have been exposed to asbestos. Mesothelioma is somewhat unusual in that its symptoms are not immediately apparent. In fact, some afflicted patients go as long as 50 years before realizing they have the disease. However, there are a few key symptoms to be aware of.

The most common symptoms of mesothelioma involve the lungs. Patients frequently report shortness of breath or trouble breathing, most often due to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs. This fluid is able to enter the lungs and surrounding areas due to the growth of tumors. As a result of these tumors, patients may also experience varying degrees of pain in the affected area.

Depending on the type of mesothelioma with which a patient is afflicted, other symptoms may vary. The most common type of the disease is known as pleural mesothelioma. In addition to the symptoms above, patients with this form of the condition often experience weight loss, loss of appetite, trouble swallowing, and difficulty sleeping.

For patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, additional symptoms may include abdominal pain, swelling of the abdomen, bowel obstruction, anemia, nausea and fever.

Lastly, patients who have the pericardial form of the condition frequently experience heart irregularities, chest pain and frequent coughing.

In order to successfully diagnose mesothelioma, doctors most often begin with an x-ray of the patient's chest or abdomen. Although not always conclusive, an x-ray will help the physician determine whether or not mesothelioma is a possibility, or whether the patient has another related condition.

In addition, doctors may perform a CAT (CT) scan or MRI to further examine the area in question. Other possible diagnostic procedures include a complete physical examination, blood tests of specific protein levels and biopsy of the abnormal area.

Once a physician makes a positive mesothelioma diagnosis, they will then want to determine the exact stage of the cancer. Determining the stage involves additional testing in order to find out how far the disease has progressed. Once this has been determined, the physician will have the necessary information to determine the best course of treatment for the patient.

For more information on the symptoms of mesothelioma, visit the Williams Kherkher mesothelioma attorneys at http://mesolawsuit.com/

Joseph Devine

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Asbestos and Car Components

Asbestos is a deadly fiber that seems to have been used in pretty much every industry since its fire retardant, insulating, and strengthening properties were discovered. One of those industries that used the fiber to a more limited degree is the automobile industry. The automobile industry is known to have included asbestos in the clutches, brake pads, and brake linings of their vehicles for years. For this reason, anyone working on a car should be exceptionally careful.

The clutch, regardless of whether the car has an automatic or standard transmission, is the part of the car that allows the car to shift between its gears. This allows the car to work at higher efficiency in the higher gears. The clutch is a very important piece of a car that is used almost constantly when the car is in use. It needs to be strong and able to withstand the engine's heat. For these reasons, the clutches of many cars contain asbestos.

Any individual that has ever had a clutch replaced on a car knows that it is possible for the clutch to wear out with time and miles. Any item that is subjected to friction will become worn out. The clutch on a car is not an exception. When the friction starts causing the item to break down, dust commonly forms in the area around the clutch. This dust contains asbestos fibers. When the clutch area is opened up for repairs or to check everything out if there's any sort of problem, the dust can be stirred up and released into the surrounding area. Once released, the fibers can be inhaled or swallowed and can contaminate the entire car garage.

Brakes are another huge asbestos problem for mechanics. There is even more wear and tear on brakes that causes the asbestos fibers to be broken down. These fibers are then contained in the brake housing on each wheel. Because the brake pads and the brake linings can both have asbestos in them, there is potentially much more asbestos present in brake repairs than in a clutch.

One thing that mechanics commonly do to clean off the brake housing is apply compressed air to remove all of the dirt and dust. This is the worst thing they could possibly do for their own health when dealing with asbestos fibers. The compressed air expels the dust from the brakes, this is true, but it also sprays it into the air of the car repair garage.

No mechanic, regardless of experience, is able to tell which brake pad or lining or clutch contains asbestos just by looking at the item. Because of this, any mechanic should treat every brake or clutch as containing asbestos and take all necessary precautions.

For more information on the hazards of asbestos, please visit http://www.mesolawsuit.com.

Joseph Devine

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

New and Experimental Treatments For Mesothelioma

Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma are often confronted with a confusing array of possible treatment options. Traditional forms of treatment include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, a number of experimental and alternative treatments are now being investigated by physicians around the world. In some cases, these new treatments are already helping to extend the lives of patients.

Gene therapy is used in conjunction with chemotherapy, in order to increase the possibility of its success. This type of therapy is commonly called suicide gene therapy, because it causes cancer cells to turn against themselves. Other types of gene therapies use alternate methods to reduce cell growth and prevent the cancer from spreading.

Another type of new treatment approach is known as photodynamic therapy (PDT). It is another method of destroying cancer cells by exposing them to a special laser light. The light activates photosensitive medication within the cells, which is taken by the patient prior to exposure. The cells are destroyed once the light reaches them. Unfortunately, this type of treatment is not always effective. In addition, there are several potential side effects, including skin sensitivity and nausea.

There are also several experimental drugs being used to treat mesothelioma. A category of drug known as anti-angiogenesis medications attempt to destroy cancer cells while leaving other cells unharmed. This is possible due to new knowledge about the manner in which cancer cells differ from normal cells. Using these drugs, the need for chemotherapy is reduced.

A final type of experimental treatment is immunotherapy. This method uses the patient's own immune system to kill cancer cells. Normally, our immune systems are unable to distinguish between healthy cells and cancerous cells.

Immunotherapy attempts to enhance a patient's immune system to differentiate between the two, allowing it to fight back against the cancer cells. This is usually accomplished via a vaccine or oral medication. However, this form of treatment is quite new and doctors are still working to determine its viability.

To learn more about this disease and the methods available for treatment, visit the Williams Kherkher mesothelioma attorney at http://mesolawsuit.com/

Joseph Devine

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Mesothelioma and Life Expectancy

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, usually caused by exposure to asbestos. When an individual is diagnosed with the disease, there are many questions which will invariably go through their mind. Perhaps the most important one involves the patient's prognosis. That is, what is the life expectancy for someone diagnosed with mesothelioma?

As with any form of cancer, the survival rate for this condition is heavily dependent on how early it is diagnosed. If the disease is already in an advanced state when it is first detected, it will require far more aggressive treatment, with a reduced chance of success.

Unfortunately, the survival rate for mesothelioma has historically been rather low. Many patients do not survive longer than one year after diagnosis. The disease has often spread significantly before it is diagnosed, making it that much more difficult to treat. This is due to the fact that an individual exposed to asbestos can live for decades before any noticeable symptoms present themselves.

In addition, patients diagnosed with mesothelioma are often 55 years of age or older, and may have other medical conditions which complicate their treatment.

The good news is that there are many long-term survivors of mesothelioma, some of whom have lived a decade or more following diagnosis. Some doctors believe these patients survive longer not because of their particular treatment method, but because of other health characteristics specific to the individual. In general, healthier patients with no other existing medical conditions are more likely to survive longer than those with additional diseases and afflictions.

In terms of raw numbers, statistics show that about 10 percent of individuals with mesothelioma live for at least five years after being diagnosed. About 40 percent of those diagnosed survive for at least one year. These numbers are significantly higher than they were just 20 years ago, giving hope to doctors and patients alike.

A few of the other factors that affect survival rates include the specific type of mesothelioma with which an individual is diagnosed, the size and location of their tumor, and whether or not the patient is a smoker. These factors are in addition to the patient's age, any existing medical conditions they may have, and severity of the cancer itself.

For more information on life expectancy and treatment options, visit the mesothelioma attorneys at http://mesolawsuit.com/

Joseph Devine

Friday, April 3, 2009

Why is Mesothelioma So Deadly?

Mesothelioma, cancer of the mesothelium, is caused by exposure to asbestos. The disease can take decades to appear or to develop to the point that it is detectable. Once it forms, it takes time for the disease to be diagnosed and then treated. So why, exactly, is it so deadly?

One of the biggest problems with the disease is that it takes what seems like forever, to those who have been exposed to asbestos, to show up in tests. The disease usually takes around 20 years to develop but has been known to wait around 40 years to develop. What this means is that a person who knows he or she has been exposed to asbestos can wait a long time before a test shows anything either abnormal or serious.

This long period of inactivity means that individuals who do not know that they have been exposed to asbestos may ignore early signs and symptoms of the disease and explain them away as bronchitis or something else that will go away with time. This means that by the time they go see a doctor because they feel awful and can't breathe very well, the disease has progressed to the later stages.

Like all cancer, there is something very important in treatment about catching the disease early and getting treatment started as soon as possible. When a cancer is detected early and then treated early, the chances that it will be cured and the person's life saved go up drastically. The later cancer is detected in a person, the lower, usually, his or her chances of survival are.

Part of this is due to cancer's very aggressive nature. The unregulated growth of cancerous cells can quickly take over. Worse, in cancers located near major blood supplies or other fluid systems within the body, these cells can break away from the pack and end up halfway across the body and start a new colony.

Because most mesothelioma patients wait to see a doctor until they are having serious problems, they put themselves at risk and lower the chances that there is any hope for treatment. By the time most people go to see the doctor, the cancer has gotten to the point that it is inoperable. Chemotherapy and radiation can only do so much to kill cancer.

If you think that you might have been exposed to asbestos, it is imperative to tell your doctor so that he or she can monitor the situation and, potentially, detect cancer early. For more information on the disease and where asbestos is commonly found, please visit http://www.mesolawsuit.com.

Joseph Devine

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Understanding the Causes of Mesothelioma

The most common cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. In nearly all cases, those infected have been either directly or indirectly exposed to this mineral substance. Asbestos was commonly used as an insulation material, due to its strength and resistance to heat and fire. It was also used in ship-building and in common household appliances.

It wasn't until the 1960s that doctors first noticed the health risks posed by asbestos. At that time, they saw a flurry of patients with similar occupational backgrounds reporting the same set of symptoms. As a result, physicians were able to prove the link between asbestos and mesothelioma.

The individuals most likely to have come into contact with asbestos include construction workers, factory workers, miners, shipbuilders, plumbers and electricians. In addition to workers who had direct contact with asbestos, the family members of these individuals were often indirectly exposed as well.

The danger posed by asbestos is due to the fact that it is made up of hundreds of tiny fibers. When the material is disturbed, these fine fibers are released and enter the lungs of those nearby. Because they are so small, the fibers get stuck in the lungs and cannot be coughed out or released via normal breathing. The body's immune system unsuccessfully attempts to destroy the fibers, which results in inflammation of the lung tissue.

Asbestos fibers may also be swallowed, at which point they get stuck in the digestive tract. This results in the less common peritoneal form of mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen. The rarest form of the condition is the pericardial type, which affects the lining of the heart.

As a result of medical research and public outcry, the use of asbestos was regulated by the Clean Air Act of 1970. In 1989, the United States Environmental Protection Agency issued an outright ban of the material. Since that time, the ban has overturned, and certain products containing trace amounts of asbestos are still allowed under United States law.

If you have questions about asbestos exposure, visit the mesothelioma attorneys of http://mesolawsuit.com/ for more information.

Joseph Devine

Monday, March 30, 2009

3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatments Explained

There are two main types of cancer non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Of the two, NSCLC is much more widespread representing 80% of cases. It begins when the cells of the lung start to expand and multiply rapidly and uncontrollably. Over time this can cause a malignant (cancerous) tumour to develop in the lungs which then kills the surrounding cells as it grows. Although this condition is potentially fatal there are a number of treatments that can be used depending on how advanced the cancer has become. In this article I will be discussing three of these NSCLC treatments.

1) SURGERY:- Surgery is normally used to treat cancers that have not spread beyond the lungs. There are two main types of surgery that are used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. Where possible one of the lobes of the lung is removed in a surgical process called a lobectomy. However, if the cancer has spread beyond the lobe then the entire lung may have to be removed in a process called a pneumonectomy.

2) CHEMOTHERAPY:- Chemotherapy involves using medications that kill cancer cells to treat the NSCLC. It is often used when the cancer has become more advanced and surgery is no longer a viable option. However, it may also be used before surgery (to shrink the cancer cells and make the procedure easier to perform) or after surgery (to kill off any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence). Unfortunately, chemotherapy is not a perfect treatment and has a number of unpleasant, associated side effects including feelings of sickness, a poor appetite and hair loss. However, in most cases these symptoms disappear when the course of chemotherapy ends.

3) RADIOTHERAPY:- Radiotherapy involves using high doses of radiation to destroy cancerous cells. It can be either internal (where radioactive implants are placed inside the malignant cells) or external (where radioactive rays are aimed at the cancerous tumour from outside the body). Like chemotherapy, this type of non-small cell lung cancer treatment is normally used when the cancer has spread beyond the lungs and surgery is not possible. However, it may also be used pre and post surgery to make it easier to perform and reduce the chances of the NSCLC coming back.

Cancer is a terrible disease and learning that you have developed non-small cell lung cancer can be very unpleasant. However, you need to remember that it can be treated especially when it is discovered in the early stages. I hope this article has given you an overview of the possible NSCLC treatments but to get the full picture you should go see your doctor. They will be able to provide you with professional advice and offer you the most suitable treatment.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Lung cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Tom Parker

Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. You can learn more about treating lung cancer and how improving your fitness can help you prevent cancer by visiting his Free Fitness Tips Blog


Saturday, March 28, 2009

What is Asbestos Cancer?

Exposure to a constant and high level of asbestos can often times lead to cancer. Mesothelioma and lunch cancer are to of the most common asbestos cancers reported today. Gastrointestinal cancer and colorectal cancer have also been highly reported due to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a highly hazardous chemical that was commonly used in homes and buildings starting in the 1930's. Asbestos was used as insulation in walls as well as the backing for flooring. What makes this chemical so harmful to people is that when dry, the small shards of asbestos break off and become airborne which then creates the chance of inhaling the chemical. If asbestos is inhaled on a consistent basis, the shards attach onto the lunch tissue and in the breathing airway. After a while of continuous exposure, shards become inflamed which can lead to the growth of cancerous tumors.

Mesothelioma is a cancer that unfortunately is extremely difficult, if not impossible to cure. It attacks the thin lining of the lungs, abdomen and heart and typically affects 2,000-3,000 people every year. The link between Mesothelioma and asbestos was not originally known as most types of this cancer have not progressed to a cancerous form for 20-50 years after exposure. However, scientists who have researched for decades on the link have found that the two are directly related to each other.

Lung cancer, another commonly diagnosed cancer caused by asbestos is equally as dangerous as Mesothelioma, but this cancer can be linked to other issues such as smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke and not just asbestos exposure. Some of the symptoms of lung cancer are chest pain, shortness of breath, chronic coughing, a change in color of sputum or blood in your sputum. Other symptoms include chronic fatigue, headaches and weight loss. Contact your physician immediately if you are concerned that this cancer may have been caused by a constant level of asbestos.

Since Asbestos cancer takes such a long time to come out of dormancy, and the signs and symptoms are so subtle, that a trip to your physician is not warranted until it is too late. In cases of cancer caused by asbestos, many times these cancers are incurable because they were not aware of the sickness to begin with.

Get instant information on Asbestos Cancer at http://www.asbestos-lawyer-advisor.com - Asbestos Cancer


Matt Murren

Thursday, March 26, 2009

The Harm of Asbestos Exposure

If you think you have had any asbestos exposure, you should contact a doctor immediately. Inhaling the small, sliver-like shards of this mineral, used in insulation in older homes and businesses can be extremely hazardous to your health, especially after prolonged exposure.

If you have only had one or two short exposures to this mineral, you should be able to breath easy, however, if you work in an office or have lived in a home that has been ridden with asbestos for decades, you may have already done some serious harm to yourself. Asbestos easily becomes airborne, especially friable asbestos. When inhaled, these small shards attach themselves onto the lining of your lungs and into your lung tissue as well as in your airways. Over time, with continuous asbestos exposure, these imbedded shards can become inflamed and turn into cancerous tumors called Mesothelioma or lung cancer. Both cancers are very difficult cancer to treat.

Clean up can occur to cease any more asbestos exposure. Companies are available that specialize solely in the removal of asbestos. This is a pricey conquest and certainly not an easy task, but it will prove to be invaluable when you are no longer subjecting yourself or others to this dangerous chemical. When a company comes in to remove the asbestos, it generally requires the removal of the insulation itself, which means tearing down the drywall.

The proper protective gear is worn during this time as well as well ventilated breathing masks. Most people employed by asbestos removal companies are asked to not have facial hair to lessen the risk of any asbestos "clinging" onto the hair and risking the chance of inhalation. It is imperative that the material remains wet at all times as friable asbestos, when dry, is the worst asbestos exposure. Once the asbestos is removed, it is placed inside a protective container and taken to a landfill that accepts asbestos disposal. Many landfills do not accept this chemical, so make sure to call ahead. It is possible to take on the task of removing the asbestos yourself, but trusting a reliable company to do the work for you will ensure that it is done correctly and will lessen your risk of asbestos exposure if you do not do it right the first time. Your health is not anything to play around with and it is important not to take any risks, especially when hazardous chemicals are involved.

Get instant information on The Harm of Asbestos Exposure at http://www.asbestos-lawyer-advisor.com - Asbestos Exposure

Matt Murren

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

The Ins and Outs of Asbestos Laws

Asbestos laws are laid out to protect those who have unknowingly been exposed to this harmful and hazardous chemical (at the awareness of another party). These laws were put into place to help those exposed to asbestos, who have suffered because of this exposure seek compensation.

When you are exposed to a serious level of asbestos, you are greatly risking your chance of contracting lunch cancer, Mesothelioma or a whole other slew of long-term health issues such as breathing difficulties and problems in your peritoneum. You are also at risk of contracting a disease that is called asbestosis which is a long-time build-up of scar tissue in the lungs caused by inhaling asbestos on a regular basis. This build-up is what leads to lunch cancer or Mesothelioma. If left untreated, it can have an end result of death. This is why asbestos laws are in place.

Many buildings built as early as 1930 contain a large level of asbestos. Many have had the asbestos removed, eliminating the risk for exposure. However, there are many dishonest business owners out there who have been made aware of the underlying issues with asbestos in their building and choose to keep quiet, possibly because of the high cost of removing the asbestos, or their lack of education in how harmful and hazardous asbestos truly is. Not making your employees aware of the dangers of asbestos exposure can land a business owner in serious hot water. Asbestos laws have been created to bring about lawsuits to companies and individuals who have been negligent on their inability to remove the asbestos from their work environment. Many people who have lost asbestos lawsuits have been forced to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in retribution pay.

The best thing that you can do is to follow and obey the asbestos laws. Clean up and dispose of any asbestos problems you may have in your business or home and make your employees aware that you have done so will create a healthier and a more respectable and forthright working environment. By making your employees aware that you have addressed the asbestos situation will protect you from any further risk of lawsuits brought on by different individuals.

Get instant information on The Ins and Outs of Asbestos Laws at http://www.asbestos-lawyer-advisor.com, Asbestos Laws

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Getting Justice in Asbestos Litigation

If you have been exposed to a large amount of asbestos in your place of employment and have been experiencing a significant amount of symptoms, you may qualify for a lawsuit. Asbestos litigation was set in place to protect those exposed to asbestos. Lawsuits have been successfully won when an employer failed to make their employees aware of the potential threat of asbestos poisoning, while still exposing their employees to the hazardous chemical. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis or other cancer related issues, you may qualify for a hefty lawsuit.

When pursuing a lawsuit, it must first be determined that you were exposed to asbestos from the designated place of origin. If it is found that asbestos does or did exist during the time of your exposure, you will qualify for the lawsuit. It must be said, however, that a tremendous amount of "unfounded" asbestos lawsuits are holding up the court, pushing back severe cases for many years. You can expect a much larger amount if your health issues are advanced. Some companies have been forced to file bankruptcy due to unnecessary payouts to plaintiff's whose problems are not severe enough to warrant a lawsuit. This scenario is unfortunate because there are many legitimate cases of asbestos exposure victims who may never get their chance to be heard due to other frivolous lawsuits.

Since the start of asbestos litigations, companies have paid out over $70 billion dollars in claims are costs related to the claims. Many lawyers are filing frivolous claims on behalf of their clients "pain and suffering" who show little or no physical impairment at all. The unfortunate part of these lawsuits is that those who are really suffering from terrible ailments such as cancer and asbestosis are being pushed to the wayside due to lack of funds and time. The Supreme Court has been repeatedly asked to put an end to these frivolous types of lawsuits, making those who truly need it, get the compensation that they deserve.

Get instant information on Getting Justice in Asbestos Litigation at http://www.asbestos-lawyer-advisor.com, Asbestos Litigation

Matt Murren

Friday, March 20, 2009

Asbestos Regulations in Homes and Buildings

Asbestos was a common mineral used for years many decades ago in homes and buildings to be used in insulation and flooring among other things. In recent years, it has been discovered that exposure to asbestos is extremely hazardous to your health and has been known to cause Mesothelioma and lung cancer as well as several other severe breathing problems. These cancers and health problems are caused by the dry fibers of the asbestos to become airborne and when inhaled, it attaches onto your lung tissue or breathing airway.

With the discovery of the hazards of it, new asbestos regulations have been put in place for buildings and homes that are being demolished as well as any of these locations that are being remodeled or repaired. Disrupting the balance of the asbestos can cause the shards to quickly become airborne, exposing those nearest to be put into harms way.

Due to relatively new laws, federal regulations require any building of a certain age to be surveyed and tested to check for the presence of asbestos. If it is detected, it must be cleaned up and removed before the demolition can take place. If this is not done, the permits will not be granted and a fine will ensue. It is imperative that you do not try to remove the asbestos yourself. This can be dangerous to not only you, but those around you. There are professional companies who are highly trained in the removal of asbestos in the quickest and safest way, keeping the asbestos exposure to a minimum.

Because of homeowner's private rights, most residential homes are exempt from following any asbestos regulations. Although the removal of asbestos is highly recommended to a homeowner, because it is a private resident, it is not required to oblige the law. Commercial businesses, public works or domain projects are required to report the detection of asbestos and have it certified upon completion once the asbestos has been removed. Following asbestos regulations may be time consuming, but overall, it is for the health and well being of many and should be taken extremely seriously.

Get instant information on Asbestos Regulations in Homes and Buildings at http://www.asbestos-lawyer-advisor.com - Asbestos Regulations

Matt Murren

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

How to Test For Asbestos

If you live in an older home (built before 1980), there may be a strong chance that you are being exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that was once used as insulation and floor backing in homes and places of business until researchers came up with the realization that when airborne and inhaled, asbestos can be extremely hazardous to your health, causing a gamut of health problems such as breathing difficulties, asbestosis and even more severe health issues such as lung cancer and Mesothelioma. By having an asbestos test done, you can eliminate the worry of wondering whether or not you are exposing yourself or your family to this harmful chemical.

There are several different ways that you can test your home to see if you or family is being exposed to asbestos. You can contact a company who specializes in the detection, clean up and removal of asbestos. If you choose to go with one of these companies, make sure that they are licensed and bonded and come with a list of referrals to ensure that you are going with a company who puts their client's health and safety first.

If you feel up to the task, you may also test for asbestos exposure yourself with a do-it-yourself kit. You can get these from a number of sources. Many of them are mail-in tests what will provide you with all of the necessary items you need to conduct the asbestos test. You start testing for asbestos by using the proper respiratory protection such as a mask and body suit (make sure that all hair, including facial hair) is not exposed as asbestos easily clings to hair, risking further exposure. Wearing proper gloves, completely wet the sample you are going to take with a spray bottle to eliminate the chance that any part of the insulation will go airborne. Using a razor knife or chisel, section out the desired piece of wall or flooring for sampling. Make sure to get all layers of flooring or wall to ensure you gather all traces of asbestos. Then place your sample in one of the sealed bags and send to the proper location. These tests generally run approximately $30 and you will have your results in as little as two weeks time.

Get instant information on How to Test for Asbestos at http://www.asbestos-lawyer-advisor.com - Test for Asbestos

Matt Murren

Monday, March 16, 2009

The Problems With Mesothelioma Litigation

40 years ago when the first Mesothelioma litigation happened, the payoff, for that time period, was great. A few decades later when more lawsuits transpired due to a heightened awareness of Mesothelioma cancer due to asbestos exposure, the lawsuits became significantly larger. Today, however, lawsuits are being drawn up for "victims" of asbestos exposure who show little to no signs of any physical ailments, blocking the way for legitimate cancer sufferers from getting their due justice.

The reasons for the increase in Mesothelioma cases is not entirely sure, but most feel as though it is "easy money" where so-called victims who show little to no signs of any medical impairment try to eek out a cash settlement from companies. Another reason for the increase in these litigation cases could be possibly because many people who have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure do not even realize when or where they were exposed to this hazardous chemical, making it difficult and extremely time consuming to find the exact culprit of the exposure.

The Supreme Court is trying to put a law in place that will end frivolous lawsuits in Mesothelioma cases or in asbestos exposure complaints. If this law passes, it clear the way for more legitimate cases to be heard by the courts and leave companies more willing and financially able to compensate those who are truly victims of asbestos exposure. Because the law has not been legalized, more and more Mesothelioma litigation cases are tying up the court system. Many companies named in these lawsuits are compelled to do a pay-out before the cases reach the court; however, with the increasing number of litigation cases, more companies are becoming bankrupt after the amount of payoffs surpass their insurance cash holdings.

Most states have a time limit in effect that requires you to file a lawsuit motion within a 12-24 month period of time from the date of your medical diagnosis. If you have a loved one who has passed away due to Mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, you will have the same time limit of 12-24 months to place your claim. This does not give you a tremendous amount of time if you do not know where the asbestos exposure came from which could mean that your Mesothelioma litigation will not happen in the time limit required.

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Pleural Asbestosis - Treatment for Mesothelioma Symptoms

An October 2005 report states that a new method that assists diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is to measure the presence of osteopontin in blood. Pleural Mesothelioma provides detailed information on Malignant Diffuse Pleural Mesothelioma, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Survival Rate, Mesothelioma Pleural Brachytherapy and more.

Treatment of pleural mesothelioma is limited and as yet there is no proper cure. Pleural Mesothelioma provides detailed information on Malignant Diffuse Pleural Mesothelioma, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma, Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Survival Rate, Mesothelioma Pleural Brachytherapy and more. Pleural Mesothelioma is a serious ailment that affects the thoracic cavity. It is a rare form of cancer that is mostly associated with exposure to asbestos. Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma is a lethal cancer that starts in the lining of the lungs. They all come to the same conclusion - the disease is almost always fatal. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma cancer, accounting for approximately 75% of all mesothelioma cases.

Symptoms

During the early stages of Mesothelioma, the. One of the characteristics of mesothelioma is that symptoms can appear very late, sometimes 50 years following first contact with asbestos. In fact, the first signs of abdominal asbestos mesothelioma may not be noticeable until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure. Moreover, the symptoms can vary, depending on several factors, such as the specific type of mesothelioma a patient has and his length of exposure to asbestos. Besides, exhaustion, weight loss and appetite loss are some of the other contributing symptoms. The person who has developed mesothelioma has to be diagnosed immediately when these symptoms are seen. The symptoms and signs of Mesothelioma can be incredibly common that is why the patient may just take it for granted. Diagnosing mesothelioma (within the framework of western medicine) can be challenging, because the symptoms are quite similar to those of other illnesses and conditions.

Asbestos Cancer

The most preferable option can be of preventive treatment for Mesothelioma. Strict industrial safety measures, proper hygiene, and regular check up of workers exposed to asbestos must form the crucial part of serious Mesothelioma preventive treatment methods. Activities such as washing clothes of a person who has. Asbestos is a dangerous and potentially deadly substance that was once widely used in a range of items, from ceiling and wall tiles to insulation and auto brakes. Most reader know that it is possible to buy ads that will be displayed on Search Engine results pages when certain keywords are searched on. The current record high payment for keyword advertising of this type is held by "mesothelioma" and "asbestos cancer". Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops by exposure to asbestos. The person who has been exposed to asbestos can claim the compensation from the asbestos firm as a financial security to fulfill the future needs of their family. The infected person can claim the compensation amount from those irresponsible firms that expose asbestos. The Code of Federal Regulations states that asbestos is to be considered a most hazardous toxic substance and you can immediately claim the legal compensation. They will either die from mesothelioma or sarcoidosis. Which are both asbestos cancers which.

Treatment of Asbestos Exposure

However, in more advanced cases, cure is usually not possible. Mesothelioma diagnosis is very important as far as an early treatment is considered. High risk groups such as asbestos and construction workers must undergo frequent check-ups to monitor any conditions leading to mesothelioma. Because this cancer is so deadly, early diagnosis and treatment can help prolong life, but the mortality rate is usually 100% within five years. A Mesothelioma diagnosis can be stressful for anyone and therefore you will have a lot of questions. The following worksheets will guide you in asking the right questions when consulting a doctor about what the right course of treatment is best for you. This tumor as a long lactation period and is often diagnosed 30-50 years after the exposure. The determining factors that needs to be taken into account before the commencement of the mesothelioma treatment are:. These symptoms may also be accompanied by weight loss, fever and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, once Mesothelioma develops, it quickly becomes aggressive and treatment must be sought immediately. Phase III trials are used to compare a new treatment method with a currently used treatment program. And if a western treatment is chosen as part of the healing protocol, it's important to know what side effects to expect and how to minimize them.

Asbestos Cancer

Mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer, continues to remain a challenge for the medical fraternity. This form of cancer is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. For example, the cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain experienced in pleural mesothelioma is often seen in lung infections such as pneumonia. Typically, once symptoms are more pronounced the cancer is fairly advanced and treatment becomes less effective. The average survival time is approximately one year, and five-year survival is lower than ten percent. Because of this poor prognosis, the cancer is treated as aggressively as the patient's overall physical condition allows, with some combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Mesothelioma is the term used to describe a cancerous tumor found in the mesothelial cells of an organ. Generally, the probability of developing this form of cancer is in accordance with the length of time you are exposed to asbestos.

Raltitrexed

Raltitrexed Is Related to the Pleural Mesothelioma Drug Alimta®. Raltitrexed is in the class of chemotherapy drugs called antifolates. Raltitrexed is closely related to pemetrexed (Alimta®), another antifolate.

Sometimes a few benign cases are also noticed. Traditional treatment for pleural mesothelioma is not very effective. Pleural Mesothelioma is affiliated with Peritoneal Mesothelioma Lawyers. It is a rare form of cancer that is mostly associated with exposure to asbestos. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a fast-moving cancer with a median survival time of between one and two years. The organs where this form of cancer is most commonly found are the lungs, heart and abdominal organs. Pleural Mesothelioma is cancer of the lung lining and is the most common form of Mesothelioma. The symptoms can occur from both to three months before Mesothelioma is discovered. Pleural Mesothelioma is the ordinarily occurring type which takes part in almost both thirds of the total detected Mesothelioma cases.

For more related information towards Pleural Asbestosis, Asbestosis, Asbestos Fibers Feel free to read these articles, I'm sure they'll help out.


Loz L

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Mesothelioma - Symptoms of Mesothelioma Cancer

Do you know what the most common symptoms of mesothelioma cancer are? Well, the most common symptoms are shortness of breath and pain in the chest. These symptoms occur due to a buildup of fluid in the pleura, what is known as Pleural Mesothelioma. However there are other symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma, those may include weight loss, abdominal pain and swelling, this is due to an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Peritoneal mesothelioma may include other uncomfortable symptoms too, such as bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia and fever. However these symptoms can appear before if malignant cancerous cells have spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, and other symptoms such as trouble swallowing, pain, and swelling of the neck or face may appear.

Mesothelioma or other less serious conditions may caused these symptoms, therefore the importance of going to a doctor if you feel any of these symptoms, because only an expert like him can make a correct diagnosis.

Mesothelioma cancer rate has increased over the past 20 years and although this disease is not as common as other cancer pathologies, the number of new diagnosed cases in the United States has risen up to 2,000 per year.

According to experts the major risk factor for developing Mesothelioma lies in working with asbestos, so if you are a asbestos worker remember following the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommendations in order to reduce your risk.

In our next article we are going to analyze the different aspects of "Mesothelioma Diagnosis".

Written by Hector Milla. If you want to read more articles about malignant mesothelioma cancer visit http://www.mesotheliomacancercity.com

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Mesothelioma Symptoms

There are different types of Mesothelioma depending on the organ affected and these different types of result in different symptoms. In this article we will consider the symptoms of pleural and peritoneal Mesothelioma.

Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

This affects the lungs and results in chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing. A common symptom experienced by those suffering from Pleural Mesothelioma is also a build up of fluid between the parietal pleura and visceral pleura in the chest. These symptoms are often not picked up early in the disease. This is the most common form of Mesothelioma with 75 percent of the cases.

Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

This affects the stomach and results in abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, bowel problems nausea and fluid retention. This form is not as common as pleural Mesothelioma but the symptoms normally show up quicker after asbestos-exposure than for the pleural type.

Similarities and Differences

Pleural and peritoneal Mesothelioma are both malignant cancers that are caused primarily due to exposure to asbestos. The symptoms normally do not show up for many years after this exposure though with the average being 20-30 years after exposure for peritoneal Mesothelioma and 30-40 years for pleural Mesothelioma.

The symptoms of pleural and peritoneal Mesothelioma usually occur years after exposure to asbestos and vary depending on the organ that is affected with pleural symptoms being in the chest and breathing related, and peritoneal symptoms relating to the appetite, bowel movements and abdomen. Ultimately both types are malignant and more often than not result in death.

This article was written by Mandy Buchanan. For our full report on What is Mesothelioma click here

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Mesothelioma Symptoms Information

Mesothelioma can be described as a rare type of cancer which is caused due to the exposure of humans to asbestos. In more clear words, mesothelioma occurs when asbestos are inhaled and absorbed into the individuals bloodstream which results in the formation of a cancerous coating on the internal body organs of patients.

Pleural Mesothelioma is considered as the most common type of mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma creates a tumor on the pleura - the sac which lines the chest cavity protecting the human lungs. Peritoneal Mesothelioma is another type of mesothelioma which affects the peritoneum of the human abdominal cavity. There are also several other forms which effect various areas such as the lining of the heart and abdomen.

Causes of Mesothelioma

As mentioned earlier, exposure to asbestos is the main reason for mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos is a heatresistant fibrous mineral which is commonly used for various industrial purposes. Asbestos is widely used as the main object in creating gasket compounds, roofing, patching compounds, and floor tiles. Asbestos dust is injurious to the human body, and may invariably lead to this cancerous condition if exposed to for a longer period of time.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

According to physicians, mesothelioma is common with people working with asbestos. It is reported that the effect of a couple of weeks or even less can result in the risk of mesothelioma. The effect is not immediate and to say an average it takes around 35 to 45 years to develop a malignant tumor. Mesothelioma cancer is mostly seen in miners, factory workers, railroad laborers, ship builders, insulation workers, and gas mask makers.

Some of the main symptoms of mesothelioma cancer include breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, and continuous coughing causing chest and stomach pains.

Treatments

With the advancement in science and technology, newer treatment techniques have been introduced, and some of it is looking promising as well.

Today, there are several procedures used for mesothelioma treatment. The type of mesothelioma treatment purely depends on several factors such as the health and age of the patient, location of the cancer, and the stage of the disease.

The main form of treatment for mesothelioma is surgery to remove the tumor and some of the tissue around the infected part. For cancer of the pleura, an operation known as pneumonectomy is usually done to remove a lung. In certain cases, the diaphragm, the muscle just below the lungs which aids in breathing is removed.

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is another method of mesothelioma treatment. In this treatment high energy rays are used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumor affected cells.

Another treatment for mesothelioma cancer is chemotherapy. In this treatment anticancer drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the patients body. This treatment involves the administration of the drugs by injection into a vein.

Christian Louis



Friday, February 27, 2009

10 Common Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that occurs when a person has been exposed to too much asbestos. What happens is the lining around the organs, (called the mesothelium), becomes afflicted by tumors, which will eventually spread to other parts of the body. Mesothelioma is a very serious disease that does not have a good prognosis. However, it is still important that a person at least know if they are suffering with the disease. With treatment they can at least have a better quality of life, even if the prognosis is not as good. So, if you experience any of the 10 common mesothelioma symptoms, get yourself checked out as soon as possible. For more information on the 10 common mesothelioma symptoms, check out the list below.

1. Pleural Effusion

First to be discussed in the list of them is pleural effusion. Pleural effusion is when too much fluid builds up in the lining of the lungs. As a result a person may experience chest pain and dyspenea, (which is defined as difficulty breathing).

2. Coughing Up Blood

Coughing up blood is probably one of the most alarming in the list of the 10 common mesothelioma symptoms. It may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing or hoarseness.

3. Horner's Syndrome

Horner's syndrome is a collection of abnormal symptoms such as the sinking in of an eyeball, droopy eyelids, abnormal pupil constriction, and anhidrosis, (which is a lack of sweating). These complications are a result of nerve paralysis.

4. Weight Loss

Many people may not think weight loss is one of the 10 common mesothelioma symptoms, but it can be for a lot of sufferers. If weight loss is unexplained and a person has any of the other symptoms listed here, they should go to a doctor.

5. Lumps

Lumps around the skin of a person's chest or abdomen is another poignant sign in the list of the 10 common mesothelioma symptoms. If you can't see these lumps, you should be able to feel them when you go to take a bath or a shower.

6. Dry Cough

When a mesothelioma sufferer has a dry cough, there will be no phlegm associated with
it. So, that right there should be an indication that the cough is not due to a cold.

7. Abdominal Swelling

If you have mesothelioma of the stomach lining, (also known as Peritoneal mesothelioma), you may have abdominal swelling severe enough that you may think you have actually gained weight. In reality the swelling is caused by the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

8. Problems with Bowel Habits

Peritoneal mesothelioma can also cause you to have more bouts of diarrhea or constipation.

9. Aches and Pains throughout the Body

When mesothelioma metastasizes into other areas of the body, sufferers will experience complications from those organs as well. One of the most common complications is pain.

10. No Symptoms

Why would 'no symptoms' be in the list of the 10 common mesothelioma symptoms? Well, believe it or not, around 3 percent of all mesothelioma sufferers actually do not have the typical signs of the disease. If you believe you are in this category, and you are at high risk for the condition, (you are elderly and have been exposed to asbestos), discuss with your doctor getting checked out for the condition just to be on the safe side.

If you want to learn more about asbestos mesothelioma cancer then please check out my website for more information and advice - http://www.AsbestosMesotheliomaCancer.net


Steven Pedersen

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

These Are the Most Prevalent Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by asbestos and it affects the lining of the abdomen, the lungs and the heart. When the cancer is malignant, it can be fatal and you are advised to see the doctor immediately you notice the symptoms of this illness. There are very many mesothelioma symptoms and you need to make sure you know them in order to help yourself or someone else. When the condition affects the lungs, the patient will have excess fluid in their lungs and they can have a dry cough and the doctor examination will reveal that the breath sounds are silent while the tapping on the chest will reveal a dull sound. The normal sound is supposed to be hollow.

In the abdomen, patients will experience a mass and discomfort. Pain is usually a major symptom and patients will also experience irritable bowel syndrome. There will also be feelings of fever and fatigue. Many will be sure that something is wrong but, cannot point a finger at what exactly is wrong. All these symptoms will happen 20 to 50 years after you are exposed to asbestos and therefore it is more difficult than other diseases. The mesothelioma symptoms are similar to other diseases like flu, pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease and many others. There are other mesothelioma symptoms and some patients could present with more symptoms than than the ones that are known.

Other symptoms include the lack of appetite and difficulties in sleeping. Since the disease will affect many parts of the body, the throat will also be affected and the person may have difficulty swallowing. Others will experience a husky voice and they should get checked out to rule out other diseases that it could be. The two most common problems that will see a patient seek medical help are the lack of breathe and the persistent coughing which are caused by the tumors in the lungs because they are not able to expand properly. It is said that the difficulty to sleep causes the loss of appetite and the lack of appetite will cause weight loss.

The abdominal illness will cause vomiting and also lack of appetite which will eventually lead to weight loss. Heart palpitations are other mesothelioma symptoms and they will present a lot discomfort in a patient. With all these symptoms, you need to make sure that you do not have the disease but, if you have it, there is hope because the treatments are widely available for you. When you experience all the mesothelioma symptoms, do not conclude that you are sick. When you visit a doctor, he will undertake so many other tests including a biopsy. Then you need to be checked and the conclusion will take sometime but, it will be conclusive. The tumors can be cancerous or malignant and they can also be benign or non cancerous. It is good for you to get regular check ups by the doctor and you do not have to wait for you to start showing signs of an illness. The most vital thing however is to stay away from asbestos and tell others to do the same.

Peter Gitundu

Peter Gitundu Is A Web Administrator And Has Been Researching And Reporting On Mesothelioma For Years.You Can Post Your Views On this Article On My Blog Here Mesothelioma Symptoms Feel Free To Read My Other Articles On Mesothelioma Mesothelioma Symptoms

Monday, February 23, 2009

Mesothelioma Symptoms and Signs

The symptoms and signs of mesothelioma are often confused with other diseases, as they are very general and non-specific. Because of this, along with its aggressive nature, mesothelioma often leads to a very grim prognosis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma are the two most common forms of this cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma indicates cancer that has begun to grow in the lining of the abdominal organs or cavity. Pleural Mesothelioma is a cancer that grows in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. These two forms of mesothelioma are very distinct and therefore, their symptoms and signs are also unique.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is the least common form. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss, blockage of the colon, problems with blood clotting, fever, and moderate to severe pain in the abdominal area.

The more common pleural mesothelioma can include symptoms such as weight loss, coughing fits, fever, inability to control temperature, chest pains, and difficulty breathing. While symptoms of both types of mesothelioma are very general, it is important to rule it out if you are at risk.

There are a few different paths that your doctor may take in deciding whether or not you are indeed afflicted with mesothelioma. After presenting him/her with your symptoms and signs, your doctor may perform any number of tests, including CAT scans, X-Rays, or an MRI. A CAT scan is basically an advanced form of computer aided X-Ray that allows a doctor to see more clearly the internal organs of the patient. During an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, a doctor will be able to clearly see any abnormalities in the affected area. Many times, these three methods are used in tandem for the clearest picture.

Should your doctor detect a tumor or other suspicious growth using the above imaging technologies, he/she will want to perform a biopsy. There are several types of biopsies, as well. They range from the non-invasive technique of extracting a small amount of liquid from the growth using a small needle, to a minor surgery, removing a significant portion of the growth.

Because mesothelioma is such an aggressive cancer, it is of the utmost importance that you seek medical advice if any of the symptoms and signs are present. While the majority of symptoms will turn out to be something far more benign in nature than mesothelioma it would be unwise to chance it. Your odds of beating mesothelioma increase dramatically if it is detected earlier.

Ryan Gabriel


Saturday, February 21, 2009

Mesothelioma Symptoms: What You Should Know

Any disease eventually shows symptoms. Most disorders of the internal system are clearly visible and this rings a bell. Mesothelioma has its own symptoms, but they tend to appear after much damage is done, and the disease does not have many specific symptoms. Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor occurring in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, often associated with exposure to asbestos dust.

An individual with mesothelioma cancer usually develops symptoms such as exertion dyspnea (difficulty with breathing) and decreased physical exercise tolerance. The insidious onset and difficulty in breathing are considered as the most usual presenting symptoms. The cancer, which slowly encases the lung tissue and invades the chest wall, produces pleural effusion (pleural fluid - or fluid in the pleural or lung cavity) in about seventy five percent of victims.

When the volume of fluid increases few changes like shortness of breath and sometimes pain ranging from mild to stabbing can occur. In few cases, the person may experience dry cough. Normally, when the doctor listens to the patient’s chest with a stethoscope, normal breath sounds are muted and tapping on the chest will reveal dull rather than hollow sounds.

Symptoms or signs of airway disease include coughing, phlegm, and wheezing and are not common, but can occur in heavy smokers who have associated habitual bronchial inflammation. The chest x-ray depicts diffusely distributed, tiny irregular or linear opaqueness (non-transparencies), usually most noticeable in the lower lung zones.

In these cases, only minimal x-ray changes are visible and are easily mistaken for other conditions. Parenchyma is the tissue characteristic of a body organ and it can be seen by using diffusing method or localized pleural thickening. The illness advances around 1 to 5 years in about 5% to 12% of patients whose exposure has ended. As a result, a marked deterioration in oxygenation happens in lungs along with respiratory failure.

Many of these symptoms occur only at the advanced stages of the disease. The symptoms that are visible are very common ailments, like colds, cough, and difficulty in breathing. The onset of these minimal symptoms also hampers the treatment options, and in turn the affected one’s lifetime.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits provides detailed information on Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuit, Failure To Diagnose Mesothelioma Lawsuits, Mesothelioma Lawsuit Attorneys, Mesothelioma Lawsuit Directories and more. Mesothelioma Lawsuits is affiliated with Mesothelioma Law Firms.


Kristy Annely

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Clinical Mesothelioma Symptoms

Many people who have clinical symptoms of mesothelioma have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. This is because symptoms tend to present late in most cases. The majority of people have symptoms for only two or three months before a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma is made. About one quarter of all patients with malignant mesothelioma have symptoms for at least six months before diagnosis.

A high index of suspicion is needed to make a timely diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. This is because many of the clinical symptoms are seen in other conditions. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma, such as cough, chest pain and breathlessness, are also seen in a number of other chest conditions such as infections, emphysema and lung cancer. Similarly, symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma, such as nausea, vomiting and appetite loss, may be seen in a number of abdominal and systemic conditions. Any person who has these symptoms, accompanied by a history of exposure to asbestos, should see a doctor to be evaluated for malignant mesothelioma.

Physicians use the symptoms that patients report to determine what tests are required to confirm a suspected diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. If the patient has primarily chest-related symptoms, a chest x-ray, CT scan, MRI, and other imaging techniques may be used to locate any abnormalities that suggest malignant mesothelioma. Next, a pleural biopsy may be performed. There are some relatively new tests that can help differentiate pleural mesothelioma from lung cancer; this differentiation is sometimes difficult because the symptoms are so similar. If a patient presents with mostly abdominal symptoms, abdominal imaging techniques and biopsies may be used to confirm a diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms provides detailed information on Advanced Mesothelioma Symptoms, Clinical Mesothelioma Symptoms, Mesothelioma Diagnosis: An Introduction, Mesothelioma Stomach Symptoms and more. Mesothelioma Symptoms is affiliated with Pleural Mesothelioma Information.


Eric Morris

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Mesothelioma Symptoms: An Introduction

Mesothelioma is a deadly and rare form of cancer that has developed from exposure to asbestos. The inhaling of the highly toxic asbestos is the major cause of mesothelioma. The ingested particles of asbestos develop the cancerous or malignant cells in the mesothelium. Mesothelium is the cell structure that covers and surrounds various internal organs. Mesothelioma develops abnormal proliferation of the malignant cells in organs such as the heart, lungs, and abdomen.

Mesothelioma is classified into three forms: Pleural Mesothelioma, Peritoneal Mesothelioma, and Pericardial Mesothelioma. Pleura are the membrane structure which covers the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity. Most of the organs in the abdominal cavity are covered by the peritoneum. Pericardial mesothelioma starts from the cavity which surrounds the heart.

Mesothelioma starts in tiny lumps in the membrane of pleura. This may not be shown on the scans or x-rays until they are developed and largely grown. It is developed mainly in people who inhale asbestos particles, which are considered to be the major cause for this disease. The symptoms may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposing oneself to the asbestos particles.

In the case of pleural mesothelioma, the shortness of breath and the chest pain due to the accumulated fluid in the pleura are considered to be the major symptoms. Continuous cough and hoarse voice are also noted as other major symptoms in the pleural mesothelioma. Abdominal pain, loss of weight and swelling in the abdominal region due to a buildup of fluid are the symptoms in peritoneal mesothelioma.

Symptoms like bowel obstruction, abnormality in the blood clotting, fever and anemia are few of the peritoneal symptoms. Pain, trouble swallowing or swelling of the neck or face is the common symptom that is found when the cancer spreads beyond the mesothelium to other organs in the body. The symptoms of the pericardial mesothelioma are persistent coughing, palpitations, and shortness of breath and chest pain. It is very important to see a doctor for the further immediate diagnosis when these symptoms occur.

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Sunday, February 15, 2009

3 Possible Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and the abdomen. It is one of the less common types of cancer affecting approximately 2000 people each year in the UK and it is almost always caused by asbestos exposure. If it affects the lining of the lungs (the pleura) it is referred to as pleural mesothelioma. In this article I will be outlining three of the most common symptoms for this type of cancer and explaining what you should do if you suspect you have developed this condition.

The pleura (lining of the lungs) is actually comprised of two parts. It has an inner (visceral) layer which is next to the lung and an outer (parietal) layer that covers the chest wall. The two layers slide over each other as we breath and membranes in the lungs often produce lubricating fluid to make this process easier. When pleural mesothelioma develops it causes the inner and outer layers to become thicker and they then press inwards on the lungs. This can lead to a number of undesirable symptoms which I will discuss below:

1) DIFFICULTY BREATHING:- As the inner and outer layers of the pleura start to push against the lungs it may become difficult for you to breathe. This can then lead to your throat becoming hoarse, coughing, problems swallowing and regular feelings of being out of breath.

2) PAIN IN THE CHEST:- As the layers of the pleura push against the lungs this can cause chest pain. You may also feel pain in your shoulders and arms.

3) PLEURAL EFFUSION:- As I mentioned above the membranes of the lungs produce lubricating fluid which allows the layers of the pleura to easily slide against each other. However, when pleural mesothelioma develops the inner and outer layers become thicker and fluid can become trapped more easily. If fluid does become trapped it is referred to as pleural effusion. Pleural effusion can lead to further chest pain and difficulty breathing but often has no symptoms that you will feel.

If you notice any of the above pleural mesothelioma symptoms you should go see your doctor right away. If you have previously been exposed to asbestos then you should inform your doctor of this also. Since this type of cancer is almost always caused by asbestos exposure this information will help them make an accurate diagnosis. Once your doctor is aware of these symptoms they will be able to perform a number of tests and make the call. If their results indicate that you do have pleural mesothelioma they will then be able to suggest the best treatments for your circumstances.

Mesothelioma is a very rare type of cancer and in the majority of cases these symptoms will be down to something much less serious. However, if you notice any of these symptoms and do not go see your doctor then the condition cannot be diagnosed and treated. Even a slight chest pain or a small but small but long lasting cough are possible symptoms. If you notice any symptoms at all go see your doctor right away.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Mesothelioma is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Tom Parker

Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. You can learn more about mesothelioma and how improving your fitness can help prevent cancer by visiting his Free Fitness Tips Blog.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Mesothelioma Stomach Symptoms

Stomach or abdominal symptoms are often experienced by patients with peritoneal mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma is a cancer of the peritoneal cells that line the abdomen. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are insidious and often tend to be confused for symptoms of more common, and often more benign, abdominal conditions. Peritoneal mesothelioma therefore may go undiagnosed until it is fairly advanced and resistant to treatment.

Common abdominal symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. An abdominal lump or swelling may be present. Such a lump or swelling may obstruct the bowel, causing constipation. Fluid may collect in the abdominal cavity, causing distension and bloating. This collection of fluid in the abdominal cavity is called ascites, and is also seen in people with liver disease. The fluid is often drained to relieve symptoms of bloating and distension; excessive fluid collection may hamper normal breathing. The collection of fluid in the abdomen, and the pressure of a cancerous growth, may impede the return of blood flow from the legs, leading to swollen feet. Such swelling of the extremities is also seen in kidney disease and pregnancy.

Some recent studies have shown a transient reduction in tumor mass and fluid collection following the introduction of certain substances into the abdominal cavity; however, these effects have been shown on a small number of patients and are being researched further.

Abdominal pain in peritoneal mesothelioma may be caused by the pressure on organs and nerves exerted by a growing tumor, by distension of the bowel, or by infiltration of adjacent tissues and organs by cancerous cells. Narcotic pain-relieving drugs or radiotherapy may be used to relieve severe pain. Abdominal symptoms and the systemic effects of cancer can cause severe weight loss in people with peritoneal mesothelioma. Fever and fatigue are also common.

Mesothelioma Symptoms provides detailed information on Advanced Mesothelioma Symptoms, Clinical Mesothelioma Symptoms, Mesothelioma Diagnosis: An Introduction, Mesothelioma Stomach Symptoms and more. Mesothelioma Symptoms is affiliated with Pleural Mesothelioma Information.


Eric Morris

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

3 Potential Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is one of the less common types of cancer affecting around 2000 people in the UK each year. It develops when the linings of the lungs or the abdomen start to grow in a rapid and uncontrollable way. This condition is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos and because of this it is often nicknamed asbestos cancer. If it affects the lining of the abdomen (the peritoneum) it is referred to as peritoneal mesothelioma. In this article I will be outlining three potential symptoms for this type of cancer and discussing the steps you should take if you notice any of these.

The peritoneum (lining of the abdomen) actually has two layers; the inner (visceral) layer which is beside the abdominal organs and the outer (parietal) layer which is next to the abdominal wall. One of the functions of the peritoneum is to secrete a lubricating fluid to allow the abdominal organs to move against one another. When peritoneal mesothelioma occurs it leads to both of these layers becoming thicker. This can then lead to a number of undesirable symptoms that are discussed below:

1) ASCITES:- As the inner and outer layers of the peritoneum become thicker, lubricating fluid can become trapped in this area. This can then lead to a build up of fluid which is referred to as ascites. Ascites can lead to swelling in the abdomen and also cause abdominal pain as the build up of fluid causes the peritoneum to press against the abdominal organs.

2) ABDOMINAL PAIN:- As peritoneal mesothelioma develops and the tumour increases in size it can start to press against the abdominal organs. This often causes abdominal pain and discomfort. As discussed above ascites (another peritoneal mesothelioma symptom) can also lead to abdominal pain.

3) POOR BOWEL FUNCTIONING:- As the tumour increases in size or the ascites cause further swelling the intestines can become blocked. This can make it difficult to excrete waste from the body and also lead to further bowel problems.

If you notice any symptoms similar to those discussed above you should consult your doctor immediately. Upon seeing your doctor you should inform them of the symptoms you have experienced and also tell them if you have previously been in contact with asbestos. Once your doctor has this information they will be able to perform the required tests and determine whether you have peritoneal mesothelioma. Following this they can then discuss the relevant treatment options with you if necessary.

Mesothelioma is one of the rarest types of cancer. In most cases these symptoms will turn out to be something much less serious. However, by seeing your doctor you can get a professional opinion on whether you have mesothelioma or not. If you have had persistent abdominal pains, your abdomen has become swollen or you have had regular bowel problems go see your doctor straight away.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Mesothelioma is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Tom Parker

Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. You can learn more about mesothelioma and how improving your fitness can help prevent cancer by visiting his Free Fitness Tips Blog.


Monday, February 9, 2009

Mesothelioma Symptoms: An Overview

Malignant mesotheliomas are rare cancers that form in the tissues lining the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) or heart (pericardium). Pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, is the most common, accounting for about 75 percent of all malignant mesotheliomas. Between ten and twenty percent of all malignant mesotheliomas are peritoneal mesotheliomas. Pericardial mesotheliomas are extremely rare. A history of exposure to asbestos is found in most individuals with mesothelioma. The time from exposure to onset of cancer may be as long as thirty years; this is why most people with malignant mesothelioma are between 50 and 70 years old.

Many symptoms of malignant mesothelioma are non-specific, and are also seen in a number of other chest and abdominal conditions. This, combined with the lack of an accurate history of asbestos exposure in some patients, may considerably delay diagnosis. The majority of people with mesothelioma only have symptoms during the two to three months before they are diagnosed. About one quarter of all people with malignant mesothelioma have symptoms for about six months before diagnosis.

Once symptoms are present, they may depend on the location of the primary cancer. In general, symptoms become more pronounced with more advanced disease. With pleural mesothelioma, common symptoms are difficulty breathing, cough, pain in the chest or under the ribcage, coughing up blood, hoarseness, and the collection of fluid or pleural effusion in the pleural cavity. The face and arms may swell up. Many of these symptoms and signs are also seen with lung cancer.

With peritoneal mesothelioma, symptoms may include a lump or swelling in the abdomen, abdominal pain, fluid in the abdomen, constipation due to bowel obstruction, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Patients suffering from pericardial mesothelioma may experience chest pain, breathlessness and palpitations. Some symptoms of malignant mesothelioma are common to many cancers. These include unexplained weight loss, fever and fatigue.

Mesothelioma Symptoms provides detailed information on Advanced Mesothelioma Symptoms, Clinical Mesothelioma Symptoms, Mesothelioma Diagnosis: An Introduction, Mesothelioma Stomach Symptoms and more. Mesothelioma Symptoms is affiliated with Pleural Mesothelioma Information.


Eric Morris