Monday, December 28, 2009

Understand Mesothelioma Symptoms And Signs

By Kor Rassad

The number of people suffering with cancer has increased over the last few decades. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is caused by high level exposure to asbestos. It develops as tumors in the linings of the lungs and then if not controlled spreads to various other organs. Sadly, it is often not caught early enough to prevent it from being a terminal illness. If you think that you may be at risk then you will need to understand how to spot mesothelioma symptoms.

Although there are very few techniques available that can cure the problem, steps can be taken to improve the quality of life in affected individuals. If you are suffering from any of the following conditions then you should contact your local GP immediately -

1. Blood in mouth: Anytime that you cough up blood you should immediately contact your GP as it can be the sign of a serious medical condition such as mesothelioma. If the cancer is present then you may also experience difficulty swallowing your food.

2. Weight Loss: It is common to see a loss of weight in people that have mesothelioma. There can be different reasons that produce a loss in body mass but if you have not altered your workout regime or diet then any drop can be cause for alarm.

3. Pleural Effusion: it is known that the fine dust associated with asbestos can cause irritations in the linings of the lungs. This in turn can produce a condition known as pleural effusion in which there is a build up of liquid in the lungs. This may be presented as severe chest pains or problems associated with breathing.

4. Lumps: In many cases of cancer there were be abnormal growths or lumps that develop on the surface of the skin. With mesothelioma this occurs in the chest or abdomen regions. It is not difficult to check your body for lumps whenever you take a bath or shower.

5. Cough: Any problem with the lungs is going to produce a cough. Mesothelioma patients usually have a dry cough that produces no mucus. This is different than the type of cough associated with influenza or a cold that produces a lot of phlegm.

6. General aches: If the cancer spreads to other organs then you will experience various pains throughout your body.

7. Bowel: It is common to find more frequent bouts of diarrhea as well as periods of constipation in mesothelioma patients. If you have any prolonged problems relating to the removal of waste then it can be a sign of an underlying medical issue.

The instant that you feel you may be experiencing any number of the symptoms of mesothelioma you should seek medical guidance. Most cancers can now be spotted easily with the latest advancements in health technology.

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