Mesothelioma and Swollen Lymph Nodes: What You Need to Know
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells which line the lungs, chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and heart. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction and manufacturing industries until the 1980s.
Symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to appear after exposure to asbestos, and they often mimic those of other respiratory conditions, making diagnosis difficult. One common symptom that is associated with mesothelioma, however, is swollen lymph nodes.
What are Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs that are part of your body's immune system. They are found throughout your body, but most are concentrated in the neck, armpits, chest, abdomen, and groin. There are hundreds of lymph nodes in the body, and they function as filters for lymphatic fluid, which is a clear, watery fluid that helps remove waste and toxins from the body.
Lymph nodes can become swollen for a variety of reasons. Infections, such as strep throat or the flu, may cause lymph nodes to swell and become tender. In some cases, lymph nodes may become swollen because of an autoimmune disorder, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Swollen lymph nodes can also be a symptom of cancer.
Swollen Lymph Nodes and Mesothelioma
Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of mesothelioma, particularly in the chest and abdomen cavities. This is because mesothelioma tumors in these areas can restrict the lymphatic system, causing lymph fluid to accumulate and lymph nodes to enlarge.
Swollen lymph nodes in the chest cavity can cause chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Mesothelioma tumors in the abdominal cavity can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and bowel changes. If the lymph nodes in the neck are swollen, it can cause difficulty swallowing and pain when turning the head.
Diagnosing Mesothelioma
Swollen lymph nodes are just one of several symptoms of mesothelioma, including shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, weight loss, and fatigue. If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
To diagnose mesothelioma, doctors will typically perform a physical exam, take a medical history, and order imaging tests, such as CT scans or X-rays. They may also take a biopsy of the affected tissue. A biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue for examination under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous or not.
Treatment Options for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to treat, and there is currently no known cure. However, there are several treatment options available that can help manage symptoms and extend life expectancy.
Surgery is one option, and it can be used to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Chemotherapy is another option, and it involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may also be used to shrink tumors and alleviate symptoms.
In addition, there are several clinical trials and experimental treatments available for mesothelioma. These treatments may be able to slow the progression of the cancer or even put it into remission.
Preventing Mesothelioma
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. This means staying away from buildings that contain asbestos, wearing protective gear if you work in an industry where you may be exposed to asbestos, and hiring a professional asbestos removal company if you suspect that your home or workplace contains asbestos.
If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, it is important to inform your healthcare provider so they can monitor you for early signs of mesothelioma.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of mesothelioma, particularly in the chest and abdomen cavities. If you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to see a doctor right away.
While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, there are several treatment options available that can help manage symptoms and extend life expectancy. The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos in the first place.