The Auto Auction Group

Mesotheliomais known to have a few primary symptoms. The main symptom of pleural mesothelioma is shortness of breath caused by pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The second most common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Symptoms may also include fatigue, loss of weight and night sweats

The primary symptom of patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which begins in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

It is key to understand that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Peritoneal mesothelioma cancer is hard to identify, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Typical symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
• Running a temperature
• Upset stomach
• Raspy voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Spitting up blood

Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. 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 removes a piece of tissue from the suspected area and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. 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 recognized as being effective in diagnosis. Opinions vary whether a CT scan or biopsy is cheaper. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. Pleural mesothelioma can also be diagnosed by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.

These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. Patients who may think they are at risk but do not display any symptoms are typically screened, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.