Cancer of the mesotheliumwill show a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is a lack of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain because the tumor is attacking the chest wall. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.

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

It is important to note 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 is hard to identify, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms include:

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

One should not self-diagnose themselves. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspected area and examines it to return a highly accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

A CT scan (Computer Tomography is an option if you dont want a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner takes many cross-sectional images as it rotates around the body. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical 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..