What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

Welcome to our guide on the symptoms of mesothelioma. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the early signs of mesothelioma, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment options are available for those affected. It is important to note that mesothelioma symptoms can be similar to those of other benign conditions, but if you have been exposed to asbestos, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Let’s explore the symptoms of mesothelioma in detail.

Introduction

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that can affect the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma, and the symptoms do not usually appear until years after the initial exposure. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and people who have had prolonged exposure to asbestos are at a higher risk of developing this disease. It is crucial to know the symptoms of mesothelioma to receive prompt medical attention and treatment.

Some of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma include:

Type of Mesothelioma	Symptoms
Pleural Mesothelioma	Chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing
Peritoneal Mesothelioma	Abdominal pain, swelling or fluid buildup, unexplained weight loss, nausea or vomiting, constipation, diarrhea
Pericardial Mesothelioma	Chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, fatigue, cough, fever

Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms

Chest Pain

Chest pain is one of the earliest and most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. It usually occurs in the chest or lower back and may worsen over time. The pain can be sharp or dull and may be accompanied by a persistent cough.

Persistent Cough

People with mesothelioma often experience a persistent cough that does not go away. The cough may be dry or produce mucus and may worsen over time.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of pleural mesothelioma. It is caused by the buildup of fluid around the lungs or the growth of tumors that impede lung function.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Rapid and unexplained weight loss is a symptom of mesothelioma that usually occurs in advanced stages of the disease. It is caused by a combination of factors, including loss of appetite and increased energy expenditure by the body to fight off the cancer.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of mesothelioma that can be caused by anemia, depression or as a side effect of cancer treatment.

Hoarseness

Hoarseness or a change in the sound of the voice is a rare but early symptom of pleural mesothelioma. It is caused by the spread of cancer to the vocal cords.

Difficulty Swallowing

People with mesothelioma might experience difficulty swallowing, which is caused by the growth of tumors in the chest or throat.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma. It is caused by the growth of tumors in the abdomen, which can put pressure on organs and nerves.

Swelling or Fluid Buildup

Peritoneal mesothelioma can cause fluid buildup in the abdomen, which can lead to swelling, discomfort, and a feeling of fullness.

Unexplained Weight Loss

People with peritoneal mesothelioma may experience unexplained weight loss, which is caused by a combination of factors, including loss of appetite and increased energy expenditure by the body to fight off the cancer.

Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma that are caused by the growth of tumors in the abdomen.

Constipation

People with peritoneal mesothelioma may experience constipation, which is caused by the growth of tumors in the abdomen that put pressure on the intestines.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a rare symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma that can be caused by the growth of tumors in the intestines or the spread of cancer to other organs.

Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom of pericardial mesothelioma that is caused by the growth of tumors around the heart.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of pericardial mesothelioma that is caused by the growth of tumors around the heart, which can impede its function.

Heart Palpitations

People with pericardial mesothelioma may experience heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat, which can be caused by the growth of tumors around the heart.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of mesothelioma that can be caused by anemia, depression, or as a side effect of cancer treatment.

Cough

A cough is a rare symptom of pericardial mesothelioma that can be caused by the spread of cancer to the lungs or the growth of tumors around the heart.

Fever

A fever is a rare symptom of pericardial mesothelioma that can be caused by an infection or as a side effect of cancer treatment.

FAQs

1. Can mesothelioma be cured?

There is no known cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can help improve symptoms and extend survival.

2. How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to develop after the initial exposure to asbestos, with the average time being around 20-50 years.

3. What are the risk factors for developing mesothelioma?

The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma include genetics, radiation exposure, and exposure to other minerals such as erionite or zeolite.

4. How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans, and biopsy samples of the affected tissue.

5. Is mesothelioma contagious?

No, mesothelioma is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

6. Can smoking cause mesothelioma?

No, smoking is not directly linked to mesothelioma, but it can increase the risk of other types of lung cancer.

7. What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?

The survival rate for mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the disease, the location of the tumors, and the treatment options used. On average, people with mesothelioma have a life expectancy of 12-21 months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. The symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to appear after the initial exposure, and it is crucial to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this article. It is possible to improve symptoms and extend survival with the right treatment options, and early diagnosis is key to success. If you suspect you may have mesothelioma, or have been exposed to asbestos, it is essential to speak to your doctor immediately.

Closing

Thank you for reading our guide on the symptoms of mesothelioma. We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and information. It is important to remember that the symptoms of mesothelioma can be subtle and easily missed, which is why it is essential to stay aware and be vigilant. If you have any concerns or questions, please speak to your doctor or a medical professional. Stay safe and proactive in your health and well-being.