Malignant Mesothelioma: occupational risks, symptoms and solutions

Malignant Mesothelioma: occupational risks, symptoms and solutions

 

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was widely used in construction, manufacturing and industry. Although its use has been limited largely from the 1980s, many products and buildings utilizing the insulating properties of asbestos are still in use today and may be aerosolized through use, removal or demolition. In addition, those involved in the manufacturing, construction and industries which employed large scale use of asbestos are only now seeing the results of acute or chronic exposure to asbestos, including the development of asbestosis or the much more serious malignant condition of mesothelioma.Malignant Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the lining of the pleural (lung) cavity, the peritoneal lining (abdominal) or cavity (heart) lining the pericardial cavity, usually caused by exposure to asbestos. All are difficult to treat, requiring possible surgery, radiation and chemotherapy and even with treatment, all have a poor prognosis, often resulting in death. Due to the severity of these disorders, recognizing the risk factors of exposure and symptoms is vital and seeking diagnosis, advice and treatment immediately is absolutely essential.RISKSOccupational risk factors for the development of asbestos-related mesothelioma include being or have worked in any of the following occupations using asbestos in production of materials or insulation:-Construction - including both residential and commercial asbestos used in works of metal materials - including steel, aluminum, iron, along with plant workers and railroad workers Mining - including asbestos mining but also talc, vermiculite and dolomite-Pipe Fitting - including power plants and oil refineries along with pipe fitting for other high-temperature processes-Building Ship - especially during World War II and the Korean War, but also as members of the ship's crew who may have been exposed to asbestos in confined conditions-Factory Work - manufacture of construction materials of all kinds-Auto Work - auto manufacturing and repair, particularly brake parts and engine gaskets containing asbestos Demolition - including those involved in or near intentional or unintentional demolition buildings constructed with asbestos, along with asbestos removal projectsSYMPTOMSUnfortunately for many, mesothelioma may take years to develop and not be recognized as work-related risks. Symptoms of mesothelioma may include: Pleural Mesothelioma-- Dry harsh cough, coughing up blood, difficulty swallowing, fever, nighttime sweats, weight loss, fatigue, chest pain, difficulty breathing, lumps under the skin of the chest-Mesothelioma peritoneal - swollen or abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, nausea orr vomiting, anemia, fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight loss, lumps under abdominal skin Pericardial Mesothelioma - heart palpitations, chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever or night sweats, fatigueAnyone suffering from symptoms of mesothelioma or other asbestos related disease should seek medical help immediately. Early diagnosis is obtained and treatment is started, the better chance for a hopeful outcome.Unfortunately, some may feel the cost of medical treatment is too high and avoid seeking help. In any case of asbestos-related disease, especially one as serious as mesothelioma, legal advice should be obtained along with medical advice. A consultation with a lawyer will provide the best possibility of getting appropriate treatment as soon as possible, and may even save a life.Getting a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be a shocking experience for the patient and family members alike. Support organizations such as the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation can be a good source of information on the diagnosis, medical problems and treatment options. They can provide comfort and support through the use of chat rooms, message boards and forums which may be of benefit to patients, families, and Art By:. Melissa L. 
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