Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, which can be found in many buildings built before 1980. Despite being preventable, mesothelioma continues to claim thousands of lives every year. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about mesothelioma, from symptoms and diagnosis to treatment options and coping strategies.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
The early signs of mesothelioma are often subtle and difficult to detect. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms may not appear until decades after initial exposure to asbestos. Because of this delay, it’s essential to see your doctor if you have any concerns about your health. A thorough medical history and physical examination can help identify potential risk factors for mesothelioma. If necessary, additional tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and biopsies may be performed to confirm a diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
There are several treatment options available for mesothelioma patients, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care. The choice of treatment depends on various factors such as the stage of the disease, overall health status, age, and personal preferences. Surgical procedures like pleurodesis (a procedure that helps remove fluid buildup) and extrapleural pneumonectomy (removal of one lung and surrounding tissues) may be used to improve breathing and reduce discomfort. Chemotherapy drugs like Alimta and Carboplatin are commonly prescribed to kill cancer cells while radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target tumors. Immunotherapy works by boosting the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells. Palliative care focuses on providing comfort and support to patients with advanced stages of mesothelioma.
Prognosis and Life Expectancy With Mesothelioma
Unfortunately, mesothelioma has a poor prognosis, with most patients living only 12-24 months after diagnosis. However, survival rates vary depending on the type of mesothelioma, stage at diagnosis, and response to treatment. Patients who receive an early diagnosis and undergo appropriate treatment tend to live longer than those whose cases go undiagnosed or untreated. While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, advances in medicine continue to offer new hope for patients through clinical trials and emerging treatments.
Coping With Mesothelioma: Emotional and Physical Support
Dealing with a mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming emotionally and physically. Many patients experience feelings of fear, anger, sadness, and isolation. Seeking emotional support from family members, friends, counselors, or support groups can provide much-needed encouragement during these challenging times. Additionally, maintaining good physical health through regular exercise, proper nutrition, restful sleep, and stress management techniques can help improve quality of life and enhance overall wellbeing.
