Some: Trouble Breathing, Lower Back Pain Horse Voice
Cancer of the mesothelium has a few primary symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath due to pleural effusion ” the accumulation of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Symptoms may also include fatigue, loss of weight and night sweats
The most common signof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.
It is key to understand that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.
Mesothelioma cancer is hard to identify, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. These symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
- Burning up
- Upset stomach
- Breathy voice
- Having trouble swallowing
- Coughing up blood
Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspected region and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.
A CT scan (Computer Tomography is an option if you dont want a biopsy. A CT scan is basically an X-ray procedure where cross-sectional images are taken as a scanner rotates around the body. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.
Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Screening is when patients who may suspect they are at risk are tested for the condition without displaying any symptoms, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..
