Symptoms of Mesothelioma
There can be many symptoms of mesothelioma, but they may not appear for 20-50 years after exposure to asbestos. General symptoms of mesothelioma that affects the outer lining of the lungs are:
* chest wall pain
* pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid surrounding the lungs)
* shortness of breath
* fatigue or anemia
* coughing, wheezing, or hoarseness
* blood in the mucus or phlegm that is coughed up
In severe cases some people may develop tumor masses, pneumothorax (collapse of the lung), or it may metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body. Mesothelioma does not typically spead to the bones, brain, or adrenal glands and tumors are usually found only on one side of the lungs. In these cases the symptoms might include:
* blood clots in the veins
* severe bleeding in organs
* jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
* low blood sugar
* blood clots in the arteries of the lungs
* abdominal pain
* ascites (excess buildup of fluid in the abdomen)
* a mass in the abdomen
* problems with bowel function
* weight loss
