Identifying The Mesothelioma Guy

This is an excerpt from "The Mesothelioma Guy" by Michael DiGiacomo. This book is an insider's view of a particular type of mesothelioma cancer. It is an entertaining read and I highly recommend it.

In this case study we'll begin by examining the characteristics of a mesothelioma guy. These characteristics include a long-standing history of occupational exposures to asbestos, an excessive exposure to asbestos, frequent unexplained changes in weight, severe abdominal pain and weakness, fatigue, anemia, fluid retention, a brain tumor, cancer of the lung or chest wall, peripheral neuropathy, and little or no significant change in muscle tone. We'll examine these behaviors to determine whether they could be related to mesothelioma. After considering the information gathered we'll discuss ways to determine whether the mesothelioma guy has a predisposition for developing this disease.

The first characteristic we examined is his long-standing history of exposure to asbestos. The most common exposure to asbestos is the manufacture of roofing shingles and the wearing of asbestos clothing and/or accessories. Though, cases of mesothelioma have been reported with products manufactured before 1970, the use of asbestos in buildings and structures began to increase quickly after that date. There was an increased demand for this material and it was necessary to manufacture a larger number of products in order to meet the demand. Many of these products were subsequently manufactured in countries other than the United States.

The risks associated with the prolonged exposure to asbestos during a short time period are well documented. Exposure to asbestos can cause the onset of cancer in the lungs, the lining of the chest cavity and in the abdominal cavity.

However, it is not necessary for a person to have consumed such small amounts of asbestos over a very long period of time to become at risk for developing mesothelioma. With exposure to asbestos, there is a higher chance of developing a mesothelioma from certain exposures. Based on the characteristics of this type of mesothelioma, it is clear that the cause of his cancer is due to multiple exposures over a period of time.

The second characteristic of his situation is his frequent unexplained changes in weight. A person who has asbestos exposure and is experiencing unexplained weight changes, should immediately see their physician.

Abdominal pain and weakness are indicative of mesothelioma. Such symptoms have been seen in asbestos exposure patients. Anemia is common in mesothelioma.

Pulmonary fibrosis is an asbestos-related illness where fluid retention is noted and thus suggesting the presence of mesothelioma. There are also some instances of bladder tumors.

Anemia is usually present in the presence of mesothelioma; however, if this is not the case the cause of his symptoms is considered a secondary occurrence and not mesothelioma. Because of this there is no way to diagnose mesothelioma.

Neuronal and glial cell death, inflammation, and infection are part of the process of developing peripheral neuropathy. The more rapidly this occurs, the faster the body is able to heal from the initial injury.

If the illness is accompanied by fluid retention, weight loss, and unexplained loss of appetite, it could be an indicator of another disorder. After all, it is abnormal to experience such symptoms without exhibiting signs of mesothelioma.

If he continues to experience these symptoms after attempting traditional treatments, it is wise to consult a medical professional to confirm the diagnosis. If this is done, the next step is to determine if there is a predisposition for developing mesothelioma.