Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Many of the early symptoms of mesothelioma are the same as those likely to be caused by other problems, so at first people may ignore them or mistake them for common, minor ailments. Most people with mesothelioma have symptoms for at least a few months before they are diagnosed.

Pleural mesothelioma (mesothelioma of the chest) symptoms

• Pain in the side of the chest or lower back
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Trouble swallowing (feeling like food gets stuck)
• Hoarseness
• Swelling of the face and arms

Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms

• Abdominal (belly) pain
• Swelling or fluid in the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation

Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms

• Chest pain
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Heart murmur
• Shortness of breath

General mesothelioma symptoms

• Fever
• Excessive sweating
• Fatigue
• Weight loss (without trying)
• Blood clots
• Loss of appetite

These symptoms can be caused by mesothelioma, but more often they are caused by other conditions. Still, if you have any of these problems (especially if you have been exposed to asbestos), it’s important to see a health care provider right away so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.