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In most cases, people usually ignore the symptoms of Mesothelioma due to their generic nature. This is because the early symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indication of other common diseases. Furthermore, researches have concluded that a patient with prior exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma much later in his/her life, i.e. after 20 to 40 years of asbestos encounter. Thus, many patients disregard the possibility of developing mesothelioma due to something that happened much earlier in their lives.

Mesothelioma is a cancer in which the protective linings of the bodys internal organs get affected by malignant cells. These linings include:

Pleura: the outer lining surrounding the lungs and chest cavity;

Peritoneum: the lining of the abdominal cavity; and

Pericardium: a sac holding the heart.

The symptoms of mesothelioma affecting these organs can vary due to the special nature and functions of the organs. Some of these symptoms are severe, and also some of the symptoms are rare. It is, therefore, recommended to contact a physician if the symptoms prevail.

Additionally, if mesothelioma is detected at early stages, the chances for a possible cure are high.

Following are the symptoms of mesothelioma, categorized by types:

Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:

Shortness of breath

Coughing up blood

Pain in chest

Pleural effusions (fluid accumulation in the lung lining)

Back pain

Hoarseness

Weakness

Problem in swallowing

Loss of appetite

Weight loss

Excessive coughing

Swelling

Paralysis

Fever

In severe cases, a pleural mesothelioma patient can develop pneumothorax or lung cancer (lung failure). Nonetheless, some patients may show almost no symptoms.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:

Swelling or mass accumulation in the abdomen

Weight Loss

Abdominal pain

Bowel obstruction

Blood clots

Fever

Nausea

Vomiting

Hernia

Pericardium Mesothelioma Symptoms:

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Cough

Unusual heart beating

Irregular breathing patterns

These symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indications of other minor diseases. However, if diagnosed soon, these symptoms can help the doctors to cure the cancer at a primitive stage. Remember that only a doctor can confirm the presence of mesothelioma by examining medical reports, asbestos exposure history, MRI and/or CT scan. In some cases, a needle biopsy can also be conducted.

Jennifer White is a professional Health Writer having expertise in the filed of cancer especially mesothelioma and lung cancer.