Mesotheliomawill show a few primary symptoms. The primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma is a lack of breath due to pleural effusion ” fluid being built up in the pleura, or membrane, encompassing the lung. The next 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 main indicator of patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.

It is important to note that these symptoms could be caused by a myriad of diseases or conditions. Nevertheless, you should see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have experienced any of these symptoms.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because many symptoms are also associated with less serious conditions. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
• Burning up
• Nausea
• Raspy voice
• Having trouble swallowing
• Spitting up blood

Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. Sufferers of the above symptoms should not panic, and should consult their doctor. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected region and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.

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. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have the advantage of being non-invasive and easier, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. 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 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.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to make sure they are not in danger or to catch the cancer as early as possible. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.