Mesothelioma will show a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is a lack of breath caused by pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.
The most common signof patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.
It is key to understand that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.
Mesothelioma cancer is problematic to diagnose, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Typical symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Fever
- Upset stomach
- Raspy voice
- Difficulty swallowing
- Spitting up blood
Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspected region and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. A CT scan is basically an X-ray procedure where cross-sectional images are taken as a scanner rotates around the body. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. 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 so, whether it is 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.
Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.
