Springtime in Seattle can be beautiful. But allergy sufferers are plagued with a host of symptoms that leave them feeling miserable. For them, spring is usually not their favorite time of year.
But is it really just an allergy to pollen and other irritants that have laid you low? Or could it be something far more serious like mesothelioma?
Allergies versus mesothelioma
Admittedly, it can be challenging to determine whether you are suffering from seasonal allergies or far more life-threatening conditions like lung cancer and mesothelioma. And just what is mesothelioma, anyway?
The layer of protective tissue surrounding the lungs, heart and abdomen is known as the mesothelium. Those who worked around asbestos in a variety of trades or are close family members of those who did can develop a rare cancer known as mesothelioma. Since it takes several decades to develop to the point where it becomes uncomfortable, the condition is frequently misdiagnosed.
Allergy sufferers often have these symptoms:
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
- Itchy throat, nose, eyes
- Sneezing
- Stopped-up nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Wheezing
- Coughing
Mesothelioma patients eventually suffer from the following:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Dry, persistent cough
- Hoarseness
- Pain in the lower back, sides or chest
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dyspnea
- Productive cough that worsens
- Problems with swallowing
If your symptoms last past spring and/or worsen instead of fading with time, you may need to see your doctor for a thorough diagnosis. Help is out there. If you are facing adverse effects that you believe could be caused by mesothelioma, reach out to learn how you can seek assistance.