Cancer of the mesotheliumis known to have a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is having trouble breathing due to pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats
The main indicator of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.
Its vital to know that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. However, if you have been exposed to asbestos and have these symptoms, you should visit a doctor.
Peritoneal mesothelioma cancer is difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
- Fever
- Upset stomach
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty 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 small tissue sample 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 known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.
These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..
