Essential Facts About Mesothelioma

Signs And Symptoms To Be Aware Of

The signs of mesothelioma of the lungs—pleural mesothelioma—are similar to those of other respiratory diseases. These symptoms commonly include shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, unusual cough, fatigue, wheezing, and coughing up blood. Mesothelioma of the casing of the digestive system—peritoneal mesothelioma—presents symptoms including abdominal swelling and pain, weight loss, fever, night sweats, vomiting, constipation, lack of appetite, and umbilical hernias. Mesothelioma of the casing of the heart—pericardial mesothelioma—is rarer, and therefore not well characterized. Known symptoms include heart failure, chest pain, shortness of breath, pericarditis, cardiac tamponade, and pulmonary embolism.

Considering all of these symptoms may be indicative of less serious conditions, it is important to seek medical advice regarding any troublesome symptoms. Any other illnesses must be ruled out before undergoing testing for mesothelioma or any other type of cancer, but it is also important for a patient to let their doctor know if they have been exposed to asbestos at any point during their lifetime. Remember, with early detection, the chances of survival increase.