Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma

by Mar 8, 2017

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which normally affects the pleura. The pleura are made up of two layers of tissue providing protection and support for the lungs and other vital structures in the chest. When the cancer is found in the abdomen, it is known as peritoneal mesothelioma.

Below are the main types of mesothelioma cancer:

  • Pericardial (heart)
  • Testicular (testicle)

Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common form, accounting for 75 percent of all asbestos-related cancer diagnoses. Peritoneal mesothelioma is less frequently diagnosed than pleural mesothelioma and is usually found in the abdominal region of the body. Pericardial mesothelioma is rare. It specifically targets the area around the heart. Testicular mesothelioma manifests in the lining of the testicles and accounts for less than one percent of diagnoses.

How do I know if I have mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma may not develop until 30 years or even longer after asbestos exposure. Following are the most common symptoms of mesothelioma affecting both men and women:

  • Pleural
    • Persistent dry or raspy cough
    • Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
    • Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
    • Pain in the lower back or rib area
    • Painful breathing
    • Development of lumps under the skin on the chest
    • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
    • Night sweats or fever
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Fatigue
  • Peritoneal
    • Abdominal pain or swelling
    • Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
    • Development of lumps under the skin on the abdomen
    • Night sweats or fever
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Fatigue
    • Anemia
  • Pericardial
    • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
    • Chest pains
    • Heart murmurs
    • Cough
    • Difficulty breathing, even when at rest (dyspnea)
    • Orthopnea (dyspnea that occurs when lying down)
    • Fatigue
    • Fever or night sweats

Talk to a qualified Massachusetts mesothelioma lawyer

Thornton Law Firm represents clients nationwide. Our firm offers free consultations and contingency-based legal services. You don’t pay if we don’t win. Call us today at 1-888-632-0108 or contact us online.