Mesothelioma and asbestos are often thought to be one and the same, but they are actually two very different conditions. A mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Asbestosis, on the other hand, is a non-cancerous condition that affects the lungs and is caused by long-term exposure to asbestos. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to understand the difference between these two conditions and how they are treated. Contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to learn more.
What is Mesothelioma?
A mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that most often develops in the lining of the lungs. However, it can also develop in the lining of the abdomen, heart, or testicles. The vast majority of cases are caused by exposure to asbestos, a material that was once commonly used in insulation and other construction materials. Mesothelioma is aggressive cancer with a very poor prognosis; most patients do not survive more than a few months after diagnosis. There is no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Patients who are diagnosed early may have a better chance of surviving for longer periods of time.
What is Asbestosis?
Asbestosis is a progressive, long-term disease of the lungs caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestos is a group of minerals that occur naturally in the environment as flexible filaments. These fibers are resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals, which is why they have been used extensively in a variety of industrial and commercial products, such as insulation, roofing shingles, floor tiles, brake pads, and cement. Asbestosis develops when people inhale large numbers of asbestos fibers.
The fibers become lodged in the lungs and cause irritation and inflammation. This can lead to scarring of lung tissue and difficulty breathing. Asbestosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, chest x-ray, and lung function tests. There is no cure for asbestosis, but treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing the disease from progressing. Asbestosis can be a debilitating and even fatal disease, so it is important to be aware of the dangers of exposure to asbestos fibers.
Difference between Mesothelioma and Asbestosis
Mesothelioma and Asbestosis are two separate conditions that are caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or stomach. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease that is characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lungs. Both Mesothelioma and Asbestosis can be deadly, and there is no cure for either condition. Treatment for Mesothelioma typically involves surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Treatment for Asbestosis generally focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing the disease from getting worse. Because both Mesothelioma and Asbestosis are serious conditions, it is important to get regular checkups if you have been exposed to asbestos. Early detection is key to successful treatment. If you have been exposed to asbestos, please contact your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Although the diseases may sound similar, they are actually quite different. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is a membrane that lines the chest and abdomen. Asbestosis, on the other hand, is a non-cancerous lung disease caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek legal help right away.
