* Mesothelioma Life Span

    Although each patient’s experience with mesothelioma is unique, most people go through similar stages while dealing with their disease. As medical advancements continue to improve the methods of detecting and managing mesothelioma, patients will have a wider range of options that may also ultimately extend their prognosis.

Discovering Mesothelioma Symptoms

    Most mesothelioma patients note the first symptoms of their illness between 20 and 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Cellular damage and cancerous changes can go undetected during this latency period, but once the symptoms emerge, they may not immediately point to mesothelioma.

    Patients often first mention their symptoms to their primary care physician. Because the symptoms are vague, they may originally be attributed to a less serious condition such as pneumonia. Until they are correctly diagnosed and addressed, however, mesothelioma symptoms become more severe over time.

Getting Diagnosed with Mesothelioma

    Mesothelioma is not always diagnosed immediately after symptoms arise. In some cases, it can take up to six months for the illness to be correctly diagnosed. If a patient is misdiagnosed and their symptoms persist, they may be referred to a specialist.

    Typically, they will discuss their symptoms, medical history and past exposure to asbestos. If a pulmonologist or oncologist suspects mesothelioma, they will conduct further testing todiagnose mesothelioma. Blood tests, imaging tests and biopsies are commonly used to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis.

Obtaining Treatment for Mesothelioma

    Once a patient has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, they may then pursue treatment. Typical treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Patients may also choose to explore alternative therapies or clinical trials. Their doctor will be able to help them determine eligibility for each form of treatment.

    If the patient was diagnosed with Stage 1 or 2 mesothelioma, a curative approach may be able to treat the cancer. Patients dealing with a more advanced stage of mesothelioma are typically prescribed palliative therapies to help ease their symptoms. Tumor progression is monitored throughout treatment to determine if the patient is responding to the therapy and if any modifications are necessary.

Coping with Mesothelioma

    For many patients and families, receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming. Although the numerous emotions that arise may seem daunting, there are a number of resources that a patient can take advantage of during each step of their experience.

    Patients who wish to get a better understanding of their condition may benefit from literature that discusses general questions and answers about mesothelioma or cancer nutrition.

Source : http://www.asbestos.com