Mesothelioma Symptoms

Malignant mesothelioma symptoms tend to be general, and may indicate an number of other non-serious or serious conditions. Perhaps the most important factor to consider if you are concerned you have malignant mesothelioma is your history of asbestos exposure. If you worked regularly with products that contained asbestos, or near those who worked with asbestos products, you are likely at an increased risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.

Your doctor needs to be aware of your work history and potential exposure risks. If your physician has not taken a work history or is otherwise not aware of your increased risk, not only for malignant mesothelioma, but for other asbestos-related cancers, your should make him or her aware.

Like most cancers, an early diagnosis can make a big differences in the treatment options available to you.

Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include

• shortness of breath (dyspnea),
• chest pain,
• weight loss,
• pleural effusion, and
• night sweats.

Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include

• collection of fluid in the abdomen (ascites),
• pain or swelling in the abdomen,
• weight loss, despite increasing waist size,
• bowel obstruction,
• anemia, and
• fever.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, and have been exposed to asbestos, you should see a doctor immediately. The next step will likely be to attempt to rule out or diagnose malignant mesothelioma.