What are the symptoms of Malignant Mesothelioma, and how do I know if I have it?
The symptoms of malignant mesothelioma may present in several different ways. The most common respiratory symptoms however are typical of many inflammatory respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia. Symptoms displayed in the rest of the body are similar to many cancers affecting other regions. Also the symptoms of mesothelioma depend strongly on the organs and tissues that are affected and the onset of the cancer (how long the tumor has been there for).
Generally speaking - the most common symptoms are: a persistent cough, shortness of breath and sharp pain in the chest. These symptoms arise from something called a pleural effusion, a build-up of fluid around the lining of the lungs that makes it difficult for them to expand and contract. Shortness of breath occurs quickly after normal or light exercise and sometimes even at rest. The persistent coughing in pulmonary edema found in malignant mesothelioma can occur at any time of the day, and patients may cough up blood - hemoptysis.
With malignant mesotheliomas of the abdomen, common features include pain in the abdominal area, ascites (a swelling of the abdomen due to a build-up of fluid), constipation, fever among others.
Other broad systemic features include the loss of weight - this is known as cachexia.
In cases linked to expose to asbestos, the symptoms can appear from months to several years after exposure to asbestos.
What do I do if I have some of these symptoms?
Consult your doctor immediately. Many of the symptoms of malignant mesothelioma require immediate medical attention. While there is no cure for mesothelioma cancers, your prognosis and quality of life can be significantly improved if the malignant mesothelioma is diagnosed early and treated.