9/8 MesoRC Blog

Please add updates@feedmyinbox.com to your address book to make sure you receive these messages in the future. MesoRC Blog Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms September 7, 2009 at 9:56 pm Many people that contact me have a history of asbestos exposure through employment, military service or other exposure.  Often they want to know if they may have mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease.  These illnesses are difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to other serious illnesses.  Only a medical provider can diagnose mesothelioma or asbestos-related diseases, but you can educate yourself about the signs and symptoms.  If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should contact your doctor.  When talking to your doctor you should tell them about your asbestos exposure history and any family history as well.    Signs and symptoms to be aware of: shortness of breath fatigue persistent lower back, shoulder, or chest wall pain weight loss (for no apparent reason) sputum (mucus and other matter brought up from lungs) crackling noise in the lungs abdominal swelling fluid in the abdominal cavity or in the chest lining clubbing of fingers discoloration of skin   If you are experiencing symptoms or have questions about your symptoms contact a medical provider.  I also encourage clients to contact a medical provider that has experience working with asbestos-related diseases. Talking About Your Mesothelioma Diagnosis September 7, 2009 at 9:28 pm I read an excellent article about patients and their caregivers communicating about their serious medical diagnosis.  When you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other serious illness your entire lives change and the way you communicate with your loved ones may change too.   Each of you may have different ideas about communicating details of your diagnosis.  I have worked with families where the patient doesn't want their family to know all the details of the diagnosis, with caregivers that didn't want the patient to know all the details of their prognosis, and families that believed everything in between.  This article does a good job of talking about the differences and some strategies to overcome the differences.   When you and your family are faced with a diagnosis of mesothelioma or other serious illness, remember you are not alone.  You may be able to rely in different family and friends for support.  If you need additional support access a social worker, clinician, medical, or spiritual advisor during this challenging time.   Read the article:  When Patient's Don't Want to Know    This email was sent to mesoth3@gmail.com.  Create Your Account Don't want to receive this feed any longer? Unsubscribe here.