Mesothelioma Symptoms: What to watch out for

Asbestos exposure could lead to mesothelioma symptoms. Not every worker who has ever been exposed to asbestos develops the disease. If you think though that you may have been put at risk, then you should be aware of the symptoms to watch out for.

Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms

The most common form of the disease is the pleural type. In this type, the membrane surrounding the lungs is the one that develops cancer cells. The growth is the result of asbestos fibers finding their way through the respiratory system to the membrane.

The condition is close to the lungs. Although it is incorrect to view mesothelioma as a form of lung disease, the symptoms may be similar to certain lung conditions. A person with pleural mesothelioma may experience symptoms of:

• chest pains
• coughing
• shortness of breath
• difficulty breathing
• Fever and unexplained loss of weight may also occur.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:

In some instances the abdominal membrane may be affected. In this case, an individual is said to have peritoneal mesothelioma. This type of the disease can develop if one accidentally swallows asbestos fibers.

Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms are a little different. Since the stomach is affected, you may expect to feel:

• abdominal pain and swelling
• Wither diarrhea or constipation.
• Weight loss for no other apparent reason

Symptom Appearance

The symptoms do not appear immediately. Once you have been exposed to asbestos, you would have to wait for several years before you can confirm that you have cancer cells. Often the long wait can take as long as 20 to 30 years. Aside from the long wait, there are additional problems surrounding symptom detection. The symptoms apparently seem very similar to a number of conditions that can also affect the lungs and abdomen. You may therefore not be entirely sure that you have developed mesothelioma.

The best course of action would be to consult a doctor. Even if you are fairly sure that you may have mesothelioma, only a medical doctor can confirm your condition. If you have any of the symptoms, your doctor may ask you to undergo a series of tests to rule out other possible conditions.

Having mesothelioma symptoms does not mean you have the disease. Before you make any conclusions, always consult with your doctor. Only when it is properly confirmed can you expect prompt medical treatment. A proper diagnosis can also be the only basis for legal action.