Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms of mesothelioma typically are latent for long periods of time. This, unfortunately, prevents early detection and often delays diagnosis. Early symptoms may resemble a common cold or flu, and be easily dismissed as something less extreme than cancer. Respiratory issues including pain in the chest, and persistent breathing trouble are often signs of the most frequent mesothelioma symptom, pleural effusion.

Pleural effusion is a build up of fluid between the lungs and diaphragm area. There are two types: transudate and exudate. Transudate fluid results from normal production and fluid removal becoming imbalanced. This is clear in color. Exudate fluid results from diseased pleura, and is full of protein and cells. This is normally a cloudy texture. Peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdominal cavity is a rarer form, and is often accompanied with abdominal pain or growths, digestive problems, weight loss, and anemia.

Coughing, shortness of breath, and pain are also all associated with mesothelioma. To diagnose whether these issues are connected to mesothelioma, as opposed to something less severe, an x-ray or ultrasound can be used. If a cause for alarm is found during initial testing, fluid may be drained from the chest for more in depth testing. Also, a possibility of mesothelioma may warrant diagnostic thoracentesis, which is when cells are taken from the pleural cavity area and tested. Although most cases that make it to this stage of testing have negative results, those that continue to show issues are provided with the final test or needle biopsy, which provides the ultimate determination of whether one is suffering from mesothelioma.

Fatigue or a lack of energy, as well as pain are other major symptoms of mesothelioma. Both are also commonly associated with certain treatment methods for the disease. These may hinder one’s ability to function properly and contribute to mental grief. Acute and chronic fatigue or pains are the two types that may appear in mesothelioma patients, and affect the appetite, digestion, and the body’s healing capabilities.