Cancer of the mesotheliumhas a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is shortness of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the increase of fluid in the membrane, or pleura, around the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The main indicator of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is abdominal swelling due to fluid buildup in the abdomen (a condition called ascites), bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.

Its vital to know that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.

Mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. These symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
• Running a temperature
• Upset stomach
• Raspy voice
• Having trouble swallowing
• Coughing blood

Do not attempt self-diagnosis. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. 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 typically pain-free.

CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. A CT scan is basically an X-ray procedure where cross-sectional images are taken as a scanner rotates around the body. Sometimes, the patient ingests a dye that helps define the picture. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If irregularities are detected, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality 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 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..