Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs, but it can take decades before symptoms develop and a diagnosis is made. If you have a history of asbestos exposure, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of mesothelioma. Early detection can lead to prompt treatment and better outcomes.
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- Mesothelioma symptoms often appear 20 to 50 years after initial asbestos exposure.
- If you have a history of asbestos exposure and are showing symptoms of mesothelioma, seek medical attention immediately.
- Early detection can expand your treatment options and increase your chances of survival.
- The experienced mesothelioma attorneys at The Gori Law Firm explain your legal options and guide you in the process of securing compensation.
Common Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma has a lengthy latency period, often revealing symptoms 20 to 50 years post-asbestos exposure. Each patient’s experience is unique, with varying signs. Knowing the common symptoms associated with the different types of mesothelioma is important, as it can help in early detection and support. Below is an overview of the types of mesothelioma and common associated symptoms.
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms
Pleural mesothelioma affects the pleura, the sac around the lungs that contains the mesothelium membrane. It is the most common type of mesothelioma.
Common pleural mesothelioma symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing normally
- Fluid build-up around the lungs
- Blood clots
- Loss of appetite and rapid weight loss
Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the peritoneum, the membrane surrounding the abdominal cavity. The peritoneum consists of two layers: the outer layer, known as the “parietal” layer, and the inner layer, called the “visceral” layer. Peritoneal mesothelioma can impact either one or both of these layers.
In the United States, fewer than 500 new cases of peritoneal mesothelioma are diagnosed each year, and most patients are diagnosed only after the disease has progressed to advanced stages.
Common symptoms for peritoneal mesothelioma include:
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling of the abdominal cavity
- Loss of appetite and rapid weight loss
- Fever
- Intestinal obstruction and impaired bowel function
- Anemia, general weakness, or extreme fatigue
Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms
Pericardial mesothelioma occurs in the pericardium, the fluid-filled lining surrounding and protecting the heart. It is one of the rarest types of mesothelioma and is typically seen in patients who have experienced long-term asbestos exposure.
Common symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include the following:
- Chest pain
- Persistent coughing
- Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing normally
- Fever and night sweats
Testicular Mesothelioma Symptoms
Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest form of cancer related to asbestos exposure, with fewer than 100 reported cases. The primary sign of this disease is the presence of lumps in the testicles. Treatment often involves surgery, which may include removal of the affected testicle, depending on the specific circumstances.
Unfortunately, because this disease is so rare, medical researchers have struggled to establish definitive symptoms for diagnostic purposes.
Early Signs of Mesothelioma
Many early symptoms of mesothelioma, such as fever and cough, can resemble those of other conditions. As a result, early symptoms are often mistaken for more common and minor ailments. According to the American Cancer Society, individuals may endure these symptoms for months before receiving an accurate diagnosis.
Mesothelioma is often detected when individuals seek medical attention for symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, according to the American Cancer Society.
Late-Stage Symptoms of Mesothelioma
When patients enter advanced stages of mesothelioma, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Signs and symptoms of mesothelioma may be more severe or apparent than in earlier stages.
Examples of late-stage symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe fatigue
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Chest pain
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
Why Early Detection of Mesothelioma Is Crucial
Early detection of cancer can lead to better outcomes. Life expectancy for most mesothelioma patients is four to 18 months after diagnosis. Identifying the cancer early can expand your treatment options and improve your chances of extending survival—some patients have lived 10 years or longer after their diagnosis.
To assist your doctor in diagnosing a potential mesothelioma tumor, it’s crucial to share your history of asbestos exposure or talc use. If you don’t provide this information, your doctor may focus on more common conditions before considering mesothelioma.
What To Do if You Have Mesothelioma Symptoms
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, consider following these steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Consult your doctor about your symptoms and disclose your history of asbestos exposure or talc use. Sharing this history can prompt your physician to recommend testing that detects asbestos-related illnesses.
- Explore treatment options: Depending on the results of your tests, your doctor may recommend various treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and more.
- Consult a mesothelioma lawyer: An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can explain your legal options and guide you through the process of securing compensation. Mesothelioma compensation can be critical if you have missed work or are in financial need due to the medical bills and other associated costs with your diagnosis.
Secure Justice for Your Mesothelioma Diagnosis—Contact Us Today
The first step in mesothelioma compensation is to pursue and understand your diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to seek medical treatment and legal assistance. Prompt action can yield benefits across the board.
At The Gori Law Firm, our attorneys are experienced in handling mesothelioma cases and have secured more than $4 billion in results for clients nationwide. We work closely with our clients to provide them the personal support and resources they need during these difficult times.
Contact us online today or call (618) 659-9833 for a free case evaluation.
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