Mesothelioma Symptoms
It can take decades after asbestos exposure before mesothelioma symptoms appear. Its symptoms usually manifest 20 to 50 years after initial asbestos exposure. By that time, the cancer is already present and the symptoms can resemble a less serious condition. As a result, many mesothelioma patients are unaware of the condition's lethal nature.
Asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma, and early diagnosis can increase life expectancy. Tell your doctor if you have a history of asbestos exposure and learn to recognize the warning signs. Treatment for mesothelioma is expensive, and an experienced mesothelioma lawyer can inform you of your legal options for financial recovery.
Pleural Mesothelioma and Peritoneal Mesothelioma
The mesothelium is the internal membrane that protects several of the body's organs, including the chest cavity and abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma attacks this protective covering causing discomfort in the lungs and abdominal area.
Pleural mesothelioma is most common and accounts for nearly two-thirds of mesothelioma cases. The rapid production of cancerous cells can lead to fluid in the lungs. This fluid build-up and tissue thickening adds pressure to the lungs and symptoms include:
- Fatigue and coughing-up blood
- Night sweats or fever
- Persistent dry or raspy cough
- Appearance of lumps under the skin or chest
- Shortness of breath even when resting and difficulty in swallowing
Peritoneal mesothelioma accounts for approximately 25-30 percent of mesothelioma cases. The peritoneal membrane becomes thicker, thereby placing pressure on the abdominal area. Symptoms include:
- Night sweats or fever
- Anemia and fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Appearance of lumps under the skin on the abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling or pain in the abdomen
- Noticeable change in bowel habits
Most mesothelioma patients do not develop the disease until they are well past age 50. They are some of the hundreds of thousands of people exposed to asbestos products in the last century. Asbestos products are no longer on the market, for the most part, but some older homes contain asbestos insulation.
Early detection of mesothelioma is crucial. Mesothelioma symptoms do not often display at an early stage. As a result, doctors do not catch it until much later in its development. If you have a history of asbestos exposure, routine chest x-rays will help early detection. In addition, you may have legal recourse if you suffer from symptoms related to asbestos exposure. Contact a mesothelioma attorney for more information.