Mesothelioma Symptoms

Early symptoms of mesothelioma are generally shortness of breath and a heavy feeling in the chest area. Ninety percent(90%) of all patients will notice these two symptoms. However, because the symptoms do not seem serious many choose not to seek out medical care. The shortness of breath or heaviness is caused by a fluid buildup in the lungs. These two symptoms should be taken seriously, especially if a person has a history of asbestos exposure .
                                      
The most common form of mesothelioma cancer is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.  Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are often compared to symptoms of the flu or a common cold.  These pleural mesothelioma symptoms include:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or lower back pain
  • Persistent, dry cough
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
Other forms of mesothelioma affect the abdominal area (peritoneal mesothelioma), and the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).  For a complete list of symptoms associated with these forms of mesothelioma cancer, visit mesothelioma charities


.

Additional Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Some symptoms common with pleural mesothelioma include back, chest or side pain, difficulty swallowing, cough, fatigue and weight loss. Peritoneal mesothelioma is often accompanied by abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, back pain, anemia and bowel obstruction. Both types of mesothelioma may leave a person feeling very weak. It is extremely important a person visits their doctor if they notice any of these symptoms. The longer mesothelioma injury is allowed to go untreated the less favorable the outcome.

Similar Diseases and Illnesses

Any of the earlier mentioned symptoms can also indicate asbestosis, which is a benign result of Asbestosis exposures . However, an asbestosis diagnosis does not mean a person will not develop mesothelioma later. It is crucial a person has their symptoms evaluated to determine whether or not they are benign or malignant. asbestos mesothelioma  will need to be closely monitored as well just in case it becomes malignant and can pose serious health concerns.