Mesothelioma Symptoms

The early symptoms of mesothelioma are difficult to identify. Because of the long delay between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma cancer, mesothelioma symptoms can be subtle in the beginning. Most people do not generate symptoms of mesothelioma until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. This can cause problems with mesothelioma diagnosis.

Initial symptoms of mesothelioma cancer are mild and many people overlook them as symptoms of a less serious illness (flu, cold, etc.).

Mesothelioma that affects the pleura can cause these signs and symptoms of mesothelioma:

• Chest wall pain
• Pleural effusion, or fluid surrounding the lung
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or anemia
• Wheezing, hoarseness, or cough
• Blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up (hemoptysis)

In severe cases, the person may have many tumor masses. The individual may develop a pneumothorax, or collapse of the lung. The disease may metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body.

Tumors that affect the abdominal cavity often do not cause symptoms of mesothelioma until they are at a late stage. Mesothelioma symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Ascites, or an abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen
• A mass in the abdomen
• Problems with bowel function
• Weight loss

In severe cases of the disease, the following signs and symptoms of mesothelioma may be present:

• Blood clots in the veins, which may cause thrombophlebitis
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation, a disorder causing severe bleeding in many body organs
• Jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin
• Low blood sugar level
• Pleural effusion
• Pulmonary emboli, or blood clots in the arteries of the lungs
• Severe ascites

If you believe you have suffered prolonged asbestos exposure, your symptoms may be an early sign of mesothelioma cancer. Even if you are not suffering from any symptoms, it is important to consult your physician for a medical screening.