It can often take 10 to 60 years after asbestos exposure for mesothelioma symptoms to develop and early symptoms are often dismissed as common ailments. The symptoms that a mesothelioma patient may experience can vary depending on the type and stage of mesothelioma.
What are the Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma?
Pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, may cause a buildup of tumor tissue and fluid in the pleural space. This buildup can prevent the lungs from expanding naturally, causing pain and shortness of breath.
Other symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Pneumonia or fluid on the lungs
- Back pain
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Body aches
- Sweating
- Chest pains
- Fatigue
- Anemia
What are the Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma?
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum lining of the abdomen. The accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, a condition known as ascites, is a common symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma may also cause:
- Pain or swelling in the abdomen
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Swelling of the feet
- Difficult bowel movements
- Fever
- Anemia
What are the Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Pericardial mesothelioma is a form of cancer that occurs in the pericardium lining that protects the heart. This form of mesothelioma is very rare, representing less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases. As the pericardium thickens, individuals with pericardial mesothelioma may experience difficulty breathing and chest pains.
Other symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma may include:
- Chest pain
- Irregular heart beat
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Persistent cough
What are the Symptoms of Testicular Mesothelioma?
Testicular mesothelioma is also known as mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis.
Symptoms of testicular mesothelioma include:
- Swelling from excess fluid in the scrotum (hydrocele)
- Pain in the testes or groin
- A lump or mass on one or both testicles
- Spermatocele (cyst in the epididymis)
- Inflammation of the epididymis (epididymitis)
Many of these symptoms are similar to those of other ailments, and experiencing them does not necessarily indicate that a person has mesothelioma. Only a doctor can diagnose mesothelioma after extensive testing.
If you or a loved one have a history of asbestos exposure and believe you may have mesothelioma symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately. To learn more about mesothelioma cancer, CLICK HERE to receive a free book written by medical professionals.