Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer: Everything You Need to Know

Greetings, readers! Pleural mesothelioma cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the lungs’ lining, usually caused by asbestos exposure. This cancer can be challenging to diagnose and treat. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about pleural mesothelioma cancer, including its symptoms, causes, treatments, and more. We hope that this article will help you understand and recognize the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma cancer, and encourage you to seek medical attention if necessary.

What is Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer?

Pleural mesothelioma is cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura. This cancer is usually caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, and it can take years or even decades to develop after exposure to asbestos. Unfortunately, pleural mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, as the symptoms may not appear until the cancer has progressed.

What are the Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer?

The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma cancer may vary depending on the stage of cancer. However, some common symptoms include:

Symptoms	Explanation
Chest pain	Pain in the chest that does not go away and worsens with coughing or breathing.
Shortness of breath	Difficulty breathing, even during light physical activity.
Persistent cough	A cough that lasts for weeks or months, usually accompanied by blood in the sputum.
Fatigue	Feeling tired and weak even after rest, which can be caused by anemia or cancer progression.
Lumps under the skin	Small, hard, painless lumps under the skin of the chest, abdomen, or neck.
Unintentional weight loss	Losing weight without trying, which can be caused by loss of appetite or cancer progression.
Fever and sweating	Fever and sweating that is not related to other medical conditions.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult with a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection can improve the chances of successful treatment.

What are the Causes of Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer?

The primary cause of pleural mesothelioma cancer is exposure to asbestos, a naturally-occurring mineral that was widely used in the past in various industries, such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become trapped in the lungs’ lining and cause inflammation and scarring, leading to cancerous cells’ formation. Smoking can also increase the risk of developing pleural mesothelioma cancer.

How is Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing pleural mesothelioma cancer may involve various tests and procedures, including:

• Physical examination and medical history
• Chest X-ray and CT scan
• Blood tests and biopsies
• PET scan and MRI

After diagnosis, the cancer’s stage will be evaluated to determine the best course of treatment.

How is Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer Treated?

The treatment of pleural mesothelioma cancer may vary depending on the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health. Some common treatments include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy

The goal of treatment is usually to remove or shrink the tumor, relieve symptoms, and improve the patient’s quality of life. Treatment may also involve palliative care, which focuses on managing pain and other symptoms.

FAQs About Pleural Mesothelioma Cancer

1. What is the survival rate for pleural mesothelioma cancer?

The survival rate for pleural mesothelioma cancer depends on various factors, such as the cancer’s stage, location, and the patient’s overall health. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for pleural mesothelioma cancer is approximately 10%, but this may vary depending on individual cases.

2. Is pleural mesothelioma cancer hereditary?

No, pleural mesothelioma cancer is not considered hereditary. It is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers.

3. Can pleural mesothelioma cancer be cured?

While there is currently no cure for pleural mesothelioma cancer, treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

4. How long does it take for pleural mesothelioma cancer to develop?

It can take 20 to 50 years or more for pleural mesothelioma cancer to develop after exposure to asbestos fibers.

5. Is everyone exposed to asbestos at risk of developing pleural mesothelioma cancer?

Not everyone exposed to asbestos will develop pleural mesothelioma cancer, but prolonged exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing this cancer.

6. Can smoking increase the risk of pleural mesothelioma cancer?

Smoking can increase the risk of developing many types of cancer, but it is not a direct cause of pleural mesothelioma cancer. However, smoking can aggravate the lungs’ condition and worsen the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma cancer.

7. Can pleural mesothelioma cancer be prevented?

Pleural mesothelioma cancer can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos fibers. If exposure cannot be avoided, proper protective equipment should be used, and regular health check-ups should be done to monitor any signs of asbestos-related diseases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pleural mesothelioma cancer is a rare but serious form of cancer that can be caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Recognizing the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma cancer and seeking medical attention as soon as possible can improve the chances of successful treatment. We hope that this article has helped you understand the symptoms, causes, and treatments of pleural mesothelioma cancer, and we encourage you to take action if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this article. Remember, early detection can save lives.

Take Action Now

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma cancer, help is available. Contact a mesothelioma specialist to discuss your treatment options and legal rights.

Closing or Disclaimer

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of pleural mesothelioma cancer, seek medical attention immediately. We do not endorse any specific treatment, product, or service mentioned in this article.