Mesotheliomawill show a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.

The most common sign of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.

Its vital to know that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Mesothelioma cancer is difficult to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Having trouble breathing
• Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
• Fever
• Nausea
• Raspy voice
• Having trouble swallowing
• Coughing blood

Do not attempt self-diagnosis. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a small tissue sample from the suspected area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.

CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, 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 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.

Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. People who need to be screened include those with a history of asbestos exposure..