Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. If you inhale or ingest microscopic asbestos fibers, they can become lodged in different areas of your body, resulting in pleural, pericardial, peritoneal, or even testicular mesothelioma. Frighteningly, it can take up to 20 years for symptoms of your cancer to be detected.

Mesothelioma is a specific type of cancer that attacks the layer of cells called the epithelium. The epithelium is a layer of tissue that lines the cavities of your bodies as well as some organs. It secretes special lubricating fluid that prevents chafing or friction. Mesothelioma can arise wherever the epithelium can be found-lungs, heart, abdomen, or testes.

First, pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of this cancer, affecting the lining of the lungs. Frustratingly, it is easy for doctors to misdiagnose pleural mesothelioma because it can often be mistaken for regular lung cancer or problems like pneumonia. However, as the cancer attacks the epithelium of the lungs, it can cause an imbalance of the lubricating fluid produced by these special cells. You may experience pleural effusion, or a buildup of fluid in the chest, as a result of pleural mesothelioma. You can also suffer from chronic chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Peritoneal mesothelioma, or cancer affecting the lining of the abdomen, is the second most common form of this disorder. This is because you can accidentally ingest asbestos fibers when they get trapped in your saliva, stick to your food, or permeate your water. Once in the digestive system, the fibers can become lodged in the epithelium of your abdomen, later resulting in tumors. Signs of peritoneal mesothelioma include abdominal pain, anemia, bowel blockage, and unintended weight loss.

Next, pericardial mesothelioma can develop in the epithelium surrounding the heart. This form of mesothelioma is rare, but it can lead to heart arrhythmia, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Lastly, the least common form of mesothelioma is tunica vaginalis testis, forms in the lining of the testes. It can cause hernias and fluid-filled lumps in the testes.

Because of the rarity of mesothelioma, doctors have yet to develop any dependable curative treatments. The best they can do it treat the symptoms in a manner that reduces the pain the cancer causes its victim.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it may be due to harmful asbestos exposure. An attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve for illegal and unsafe asbestos exposure. To learn more about your legal options, contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney.