Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used for insulation in homes, offices, and other buildings. The reason for its suitability for the task was that it was fireproof, non-toxic, and resistant to heat and fire. It was the material of choice because of these properties. Unfortunately, as time went on, Asbestos was found to be dangerous in the environment and individuals began to become sensitive to its presence. Asbestos and mesothelioma are related diseases, but their symptoms are different.
An asbestosis is a form of lung cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. Symptoms include cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, and shortness of time between breathings. Asbestosis can cause irreversible damage to the lining of the lungs and is often fatal. Two main types of Asbestosis are pleural and peritoneal. There are other subtypes, but they are very rare.
Mesothelioma is a rare type of lung cancer that affects the mesothelium, or tissue covering the lungs. Mesothelioma cancer can affect anyone, but it is most common among smokers. It is not curable, but there are ways to treat it. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, persistent coughing with or without blood in the chest, breathlessness, nausea and vomiting, weight loss and swelling of the abdomen. There are other symptoms that may occur as well, but they are not as common.
Asbestos is no longer used extensively in building construction because of the health risks associated with its use. However, some buildings have been built before asbestos was banned and contain the material illegally. Any suspected illegal construction sites should be reported to the relevant authorities. There have been some reports of cancers and other ailments attributed to Asbestos, so it is imperative that any person who suspects that they have Asbestos in their home or workplace is seen by a doctor for a proper Asbestos and mesothelioma.
The symptoms of Asbestos-related illnesses do not generally develop until around one year after the Asbestos exposure. Some people may experience symptoms years after the initial asbestos exposure. If you believe you have an Asbestos-related illness, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for a correct diagnosis. Early diagnosis can drastically improve the chance of achieving a full recovery from Asbestos-related diseases.
Asbestos is known to cause a number of different cancers and ailments including Pleural Cell Carcinoma (PCC), Colon Cancer and Mesothelioma. Pleural Cell Carcinoma is the most commonly reported cancer from Asbestos exposure. Pleural cells are located in the lining of the lung cavity. This lining cell lining is called an epithelial and is directly attached to the lungs’ alveoli, or air sacs. Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma as the Asbestos fibers can be inhaled into the pleural cells and affect the cells in the lung’s supporting structures. Asbestos mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma.
Asbestosis is a more rare form of Asbestos-related cancer. Asbestosis affects the lining of the lungs and causes the same type of pain and discomfort as pleural cell carcinoma. It is also important to note that there is a difference between Asbestosis and lung cancer. The symptoms associated with Asbestosis resemble those of lung cancer and mesothelioma. Individuals suffering from Asbestosis will often experience cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Asbestosis is not the only form of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It is important to remember that there are other forms of lung cancer caused by Asbestos that have yet to be discovered. These other forms of lung cancer include peritoneal mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma, and periculopahyral mesothelioma. As of this writing, the latest information about Asbestos related cancer indicates that approximately one million Americans are currently living with Asbestos induced cancer. If you or a loved one suffers from Asbestos induced cancer, there is help waiting.
