Cancer of the mesotheliumhas a few major symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is having trouble breathing due to pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Symptoms may also include fatigue, loss of weight and night sweats
The primary symptom of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.
It is important to note that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.
Malignant mesothelioma is hard to identify, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Typical symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
- Running a temperature
- Upset stomach
- Breathy voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Coughing blood
One should not self-diagnose themselves. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected region and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.
Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by testing a sample of fluid from the pleura for cancer cells.
Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.
