Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is primarily caused by exposure to certain types of
asbestos, a material once used in building construction. Symptoms of mesothelioma do not appear immediately after being exposed, taking about 25 to 50 years after the initial exposure to develop. It is a very slow progressing disease that usually strikes middle-age to senior adults long after their exposure to asbestos. Like other
types of cancer, sometimes the disease is
asymptomatic for a long time, meaning there are no symptoms.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Symptoms vary greatly from person to person, and the type of mesothelioma (pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial) affects what symptoms a person may experience.
Pleural mesothelioma affects the pleura -- the lining of the lungs. It is the most common type of mesothelioma. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
- persistant cough
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- wheezing
In people with mesothelioma, chest x-rays may reveal pleural effusion, a condition where fluid begins to accumulate in the sac containing the lungs. Blood clots can occur as well, but aren't very common.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the peritoneum -- the lining of the abdomen. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
- abdominal pain
- abdominal swelling
- abdominal mass
- nausea or vomiting
- change in bowel habits
As peritoneal mesothelioma advances, a person might experience night sweats, anemia, fever, or even a bowel obstruction, although this is not as common.
Pericardial mesothelioma affects the pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart. It is the least common type, affecting about 5% of people with the disease. Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms include:
- chest pain
- shortness of breath, even when not exerting energy
- heart palpitations or irregular breathing
- fatigue
What to Do if You Have the Symptoms of Mesothelioma
If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past and feel you are suffering from mesothelioma symptoms, please see your doctor. Be sure to inform your doctor that you have previously been exposed to asbestos. Mesothelioma is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late because the symptoms mimic those of many other illnesses. However, if your physician is aware of your exposure and symptoms, it may make for a more timely diagnosis.
