A Few: Shortness of Breath, Lower Back Pain Wheezing Voice
Malignant mesothelioma has a few major symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath 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 most common signof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is key to understand that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.
Mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Typical symptoms:
- Having trouble breathing
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Nausea
- Raspy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing blood
Do not attempt self-diagnosis. 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 takes a small tissue sample from the region that cancer is suspected and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
A CT scan (Computer Tomography is an option if you dont want a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.
Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.