In most cases, people usually ignore the symptoms of Mesothelioma due to their generic nature. This is because the early symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indication of other common diseases. Furthermore, researches have concluded that a patient with prior exposure to asbestos may develop mesothelioma much later in his/her life, i.e. after 20 to 40 years of asbestos encounter. Thus, many patients disregard the possibility of developing mesothelioma due to something that happened much earlier in their lives.
Mesothelioma is a cancer in which the protective linings of the body's internal organs get affected by malignant cells. These linings include:
oPleura: the outer lining surrounding the lungs and chest cavity;
oPeritoneum: the lining of the abdominal cavity; and
oPericardium: a sac holding the heart.
The symptoms of mesothelioma affecting these organs can vary due to the special nature and functions of the organs. Some of these symptoms are severe, and also some of the symptoms are rare. It is, therefore, recommended to contact a physician if the symptoms prevail.
Additionally, if mesothelioma is detected at early stages, the chances for a possible cure are high.
Following are the symptoms of mesothelioma, categorized by types:
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms:
oShortness of breath
oCoughing up blood
oPain in chest
oPleural effusions (fluid accumulation in the lung lining)
oBack pain
oHoarseness
oWeakness
oProblem in swallowing
oLoss of appetite
oWeight loss
oExcessive coughing
oSwelling
oParalysis
oFever
In severe cases, a pleural mesothelioma patient can develop pneumothorax or lung cancer (lung failure). Nonetheless, some patients may show almost no symptoms.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms:
oSwelling or mass accumulation in the abdomen
oWeight Loss
oAbdominal pain
oBowel obstruction
oBlood clots
oFever
oNausea
oVomiting
oHernia
Pericardium Mesothelioma Symptoms:
oChest pain
oShortness of breath
oCough
oUnusual heart beating
oIrregular breathing patterns
These symptoms of mesothelioma can also be the indications of other minor diseases. However, if diagnosed soon, these symptoms can help the doctors to cure the cancer at a primitive stage. Remember that only a doctor can confirm the presence of mesothelioma by examining medical reports, asbestos exposure history, MRI and/or CT scan. In some cases, a needle biopsy can also be conducted.
Jennifer White is a professional Health Writer having expertise in the filed of cancer especially mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_White
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