Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The warning signs are easy to mistake

Mesothelioma occurs relatively rarely—with about 3,000 cases diagnosed in the United States per year.  So, the mesothelioma’s symptoms are frequently mistaken for more common health problems, including pneumonia. Recognizing mesothelioma symptoms is also complicated because it takes 20 to 40 years after the asbestos exposure for symptoms to begin to appear.

Collections of fluid cause pain and shortness of breath

One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is an accumulation of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity (pleural effusion).  This leads to shortness of breath and pain that becomes more severe as the volume of fluid increases.  Pleural effusion is associated with the type of mesothelioma that affects about two-thirds of victims.

Peritoneal and pericardial mesothelioma also manifests as accumulations of fluid around organs.  Mesothelioma warning signs vary according to the disease type. They often mimic symptoms of cancer and unrelated illnesses.

Pleural mesothelioma symptoms

Painful breathing Pain in rib and chest area Shortness of breath, even when idle Fatigue Fever Night sweats Chronic hoarseness

Swelling of face and arms Lumps in chest Unexplained weight loss Sensory loss Difficulty swallowing Persistent dry cough Bloody sputum

Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms

Painful in abdominal region Swelling in abdomen—ascites Bowel obstruction Constipation Diarrhea Lumps under skin in abdominal area Vomiting

Nausea Fatigue Fever Night sweats Anemia Unexplained weight loss Frequency of urination

Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms

Irregular heartbeats Heart palpitations Difficulty breathing

Night sweats Fatigue Fever

Precautions

Having any of these potential indications of mesothelioma does not necessarily mean that you have the disease. However, if you are exposed to asbestos and are experiencing these symptoms, consult your doctor right away. Tell your doctor about known asbestos exposures and other occupational risk factors.