Mesothelioma Symptoms
The tumors are typically found in the linings of your tissues surrounding your lungs, or less commonly in the tissue that surrounds the abdominal cavity, also known as the peritoneum. The most common mesothelioma signs include chest discomfort, breathlessness and fluid accumulation.
Doctors can diagnose mesothelioma by an examination, imaging tests and blood tests. They may recommend a procedure to help relieve the pressure from fluid buildup, like thoracentesis/paracentesis or pleurodesis.
Chest Pain
The lining of lungs can be affected by mesothelioma and less frequently, the lining in the abdominal cavity. The tumor may cause pain in both areas as it expands. Fluid buildup can also cause lung pain and difficulty in breathing.
A person who experiences chest pain should see an emergency physician immediately, particularly in the event that it becomes more severe over time or is associated with any of the other symptoms mentioned here. A doctor may perform a physical exam and request an imaging scan to identify the tumor.
A biopsy is ordered by a doctor if an imaging scan reveals an abnormality or tumor. A biopsy involves inserting a needle in the affected area, and then taking a small sample of tissue. The tissue sample is then examined under a microscope in order to detect cancerous cells.
Mesothelioma is an uncommon condition that makes it difficult for patients to obtain an accurate diagnosis. The cancer can develop for years before the symptoms become noticeable. During this period, mesothelioma may be mistakenly diagnosed with other diseases like pneumonia or lung cancer. Mesothelioma may also be confused with other conditions that have similar symptoms, like inflammatory bowel disease and cysts of the ovary.
When an individual is diagnosed with mesothelioma their doctor will attempt to treat the condition that’s causing the symptoms. They’ll usually prescribe medications to reduce the symptoms, such as over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
Because mesothelioma is so rare and therefore, it’s crucial for patients to be aware and see their doctor when they notice any unusual symptoms. They should also make sure to report any history of asbestos exposure so they can be diagnosed and get treatment as soon as they can. By keeping in contact with their doctors mesothelioma patients will be sure they are getting the best possible treatment to treat their symptoms and prolong their lives.
Abdominal Pain
Pain that is felt in the abdomen may be caused by both pleural and mesothelioma peritoneal. Contrary to heart or chest pain, which is usually localized, abdominal pain may radiate throughout the body. It can be intermittent or be aggravated by certain actions, such as coughing or eating. Some people with peritoneal msothelioma report unaccounted weight loss which can cause abdominal discomfort.
The type and location of mesothelioma that the patient is suffering from determines the symptoms they experience, but common symptoms like nausea, fatigue and unspecified weight loss are common among patients. Mesothelioma, a rare cancer, is caused by asbestos fibers. It can cause inflammation and scarring to the mesothelium.
In addition to pain, some mesothelioma patients experience difficulty breathing due to tumors that affect the lung. Pleural mesothelioma causes fluid buildup in the lungs, referred to as pleural effusion. It can cause breath shortness. This fluid can be eliminated using an outpatient procedure called pleurodesis or by placing a tube into the chest to drain it regularly at home. The fluid may return to the lungs following draining, which could mean that the cancer has not been completely removed from the pleura tissue.
Mesothelioma can also lead to lower energy levels and an alteration in mood. This is because chronic pain can make it difficult to get adequate sleep and eat well, and it can interfere with daily activities.
In the wake of these changes, some patients suffer from anxiety or depression. These emotional side effects of mesothelioma is normal and should not be overlooked.
Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed with a physical exam and a review of the patient’s medical history. Doctors can also order blood tests, x-rays and other procedures to locate and diagnose mesothelioma. To ensure the accuracy of testing patients must be forthcoming about their asbestos exposure. They should also discuss any other symptoms they have because they could be a sign of other ailments and should not be dismissed.
Fatigue and Weakness
Mesothelioma symptoms that start early include fatigue, a loss in energy and a general feeling of exhaustion. end stage mesothelioma symptoms may cause these symptoms throughout the body, based on where the tumors have been able to grow. For example mesothelioma that affects pleural tissue can affect the lung lining, and peritoneal mesothelioma can occur in the lining of the abdomen. In addition to fatigue, some patients suffer from fever, unproven weight loss and sweating.
Fatigue can be caused by cancer or as a result of other treatments, like chemotherapy. The signs of fatigue can be an indication of any illness, so it is important to speak with your doctor about what’s the cause of your fatigue and weakness.
Fatigue and weakness can be experienced at any point in the mesothelioma cancer treatment process. However, as the mesothelioma progresses and spreads, it is more likely the fatigue will increase in severity. Mesothelioma patients must be sure to explain their fatigue in full to help doctors determine the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Patients often confuse their symptoms of fatigue and weakness with other symptoms that are common. These symptoms can be mistaken for the effects of mesothelioma in the respiratory system. In certain instances it is possible that fatigue is caused by a build-up of fluid in the chest (pleural effusion) or mesothelioma’s pressure pressing on a nerve.
It is important to consult an expert if you are experiencing these symptoms. In some instances mesothelioma is classified as a metastatic illness when it has already spread to other areas of the body. In these cases the root cause of the fatigue will be a medical condition that can be treated.
Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly asbestos-related cancer. It is crucial to seek immediate help when you or someone near you has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma. Our patient advocates are trained to assist you find mesothelioma experts. They can answer any questions you have and explain your rights under the law, or provide you to resources for treatment. Contact us to get started today. You can get a free assessment of your case. We do not charge costs unless we receive compensation on your behalf.
Breathing issues
Breathing issues are a common mesothelioma symptom, especially for those suffering from the most common form the cancer. The Pleura is the lining that surrounds the lung, and pleural cancer affects the lungs the most.
The shortness of breath is the most common mesothelioma symptom. It develops slowly and can make it difficult to breathe. This is due to the cancer and asbestos fibers can make the lining of the lungs stiffen or thicken and make it more difficult for patients to absorb oxygen.
As cancer progresses patients may suffer from more breathing difficulties. Patients may also experience dry cough, or fluid buildup in their lungs. This could cause chest pain and breathing difficulties. If the fluid is severe, doctors may conduct the procedure of draining it. This is a procedure called pleurodesis, where doctors apply a chemical that causes the lung’s lining to scar and stick together. This procedure prevents fluid from accumulating in the lungs but is not a cure for the disease.
Other symptoms of mesothelioma are fatigue and a constant cough. Back discomfort and difficulty swallowing may be a sign of mesothelioma as well. Mesothelioma symptoms can sometimes coincide with other medical conditions such as pneumonia. Patients should consult a doctor to discuss any concerns.
The symptoms of mesothelioma are more likely to appear when the cancer is in its late stages and has spread from the initial site of the tumor. It is therefore important for those who have a history of asbestos exposure seek treatment and diagnosis as soon as they can.
The diagnosis of mesothelioma is made with a physical examination. The doctor will inquire about the patient’s exposure to asbestos and health medical history. The doctor will run tests to determine whether the mesothelioma has reached an early or advanced stage. If a person is diagnosed with mesothelioma they could be eligible for compensation from asbestos trust funds for the expenses associated with the disease. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos and you are suffering from any of these symptoms, you should contact mesothelioma lawyers today to get started.
