Common Mesothelioma Symptoms You Need to Know
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells, which are found in the lining of the chest and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries until the 1970s. Unfortunately, mesothelioma symptoms can take decades to develop, and by the time they do, the cancer is often in an advanced stage. Therefore, it is essential to know the common mesothelioma symptoms to receive timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Chest Symptoms
The most common location for mesothelioma is the chest, and as such, the most common symptoms are chest-related. These include:
- Chest pain, which is caused by the tumor pressing on the chest wall or nerves.
- Shortness of breath, which is caused by the tumor blocking or squeezing the lungs or diaphragm.
- Coughing up blood, which is caused by the tumor invading blood vessels in the chest.
- Difficulty breathing, which can be caused by a buildup of fluid in the chest cavity (pleural effusion).
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you have a history of asbestos exposure, you should see a doctor immediately.
Abdominal Symptoms
Mesothelioma can also occur in the abdominal cavity, which is known as peritoneal mesothelioma. The most common symptoms of this type of mesothelioma include:
- Abdominal pain, which is usually located in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen.
- Swelling or bloating in the abdomen, which is caused by a buildup of fluid (ascites).
- Nausea and vomiting, which can be caused by the tumor pressing on the stomach or intestines.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss, which can be caused by the body's response to the cancer.
Abdominal symptoms can be difficult to diagnose, as they can be mistaken for other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, if you have a history of asbestos exposure, it is crucial to mention it to your doctor to receive appropriate testing.
Other Symptoms
Aside from chest and abdominal symptoms, mesothelioma can also cause other general symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue, which is common in cancer patients due to the body's response to the disease and treatment.
- Fever, which can be caused by the immune system's response to the cancer.
- Sweating, which can be caused by the body's attempt to fight the cancer.
These symptoms alone are not specific to mesothelioma, but if you have a history of asbestos exposure, they should prompt you to seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Knowing the common symptoms of mesothelioma can help you receive an accurate and timely diagnosis, which is crucial for receiving appropriate treatment. If you have a history of asbestos exposure, you should mention it to your doctor, even if you do not experience any symptoms, as mesothelioma can take decades to develop.
It is essential to note that some people may not experience any symptoms until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. Therefore, regular medical checkups and screening tests are crucial for those who are at high risk of developing mesothelioma.