Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor occurring in the lining of the lung ,abdominal cavity, chest cavity, or the sac that protects the heart as well as the protective tissue that surrounds most of the internal organs. Caused by breathing asbestos fibers, mesothelioma is almost exclusively found in occupations with asbestos exposure such as in shipyards, factories, foundries, and aboard maritime vessels and U.S. Navy ships. There may be a span of decades between the time of exposure and the onset of symptoms.
Step 1
Evaluate your symptoms and make a list to take to your doctor appointment. Symptoms of mesothelioma in the lungs include fluid in the lungs, chest pain, a persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever, and weight loss. Abdominal mesothelioma may show as weight loss, fever, bowel obstruction, abdominal pain and swelling, and an accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.
Step 2
Expect your doctor to schedule you for an extensive examination if she also suspects your symptoms may be mesothelioma. This exam will give a close look be of the lungs or abdomen; a thin, lighted tube will be inserted through the chest or abdomen to look at the area in question.
Step 3
Realize that if abnormal appearing sells are seen, the specialist will take a sample piece (biopsy) of tissue. This biopsy will be sent for laboratory examination to determine whether your suspicions of mesothelioma are true.
Step 4
Follow your doctor's treatment if your diagnosis is positive. This will insure that you have the optimum chance of a full recovery. Treatment for mesothelioma is typically aggressive and ranges from surgery to radiation, depending on the location and stage of the tumors when they are found.
