Mesothelioma is an aggressive type of cancer. This is why it is so important to identify the symptoms as early as possible. The sooner treatment can begin, the greater the chances of recovery.
It is important to remember that mesothelioma can occur in different places within the body, which could lead to very different symptoms. The two most common types are pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma
To start with, pleural mesothelioma happens in the chest, the lungs and the surrounding tissues. It can lead to a persistent cough, along with lower back pain. The patient may have difficulty swallowing, or they may notice unexplained weight loss. In some cases, there is notable facial swelling. As the disease progresses, it could lead to respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing.
Peritoneal mesothelioma
When mesothelioma develops in the abdomen, it brings on different symptoms, from constipation to vomiting. The patient may feel nauseated or have swelling and abdominal pain. These symptoms can be very severe if there is a blockage in the small intestine itself. This is more of a digestive issue than a respiratory issue despite both conditions being very similar types of cancer.
What comes next?
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to work with an experienced medical team to determine what is really happening. They can make a diagnosis, such as determining that you have developed mesothelioma due to previous asbestos exposure. Once you have this diagnosis, you can work on creating a treatment plan and considering all of the legal options you may have, especially if you believe compensation is warranted.