Why Early Detection Matters

Mesothelioma symptoms often mimic other conditions like pneumonia, COPD, or irritable bowel syndrome. Because symptoms typically appear decades after exposure, many patients and doctors don't initially suspect mesothelioma. Early detection significantly improves treatment options and survival rates.

Pleural Mesothelioma

75% of cases

Location: Lungs

Shortness of breath

Caused by fluid buildup (pleural effusion) and tumor growth

Chest pain

Often felt in the lower back or side of the chest

Persistent dry cough

May worsen over time as tumors grow

Fatigue

General tiredness and weakness

Unexplained weight loss

Can be significant, often 10+ pounds

Fever and night sweats

Less common but can occur

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

20% of cases

Location: Abdomen

Abdominal pain

Often the first symptom noticed

Abdominal swelling

Caused by fluid buildup (ascites) or tumor mass

Nausea and vomiting

May be related to bowel obstruction

Loss of appetite

Leading to weight loss

Bowel changes

Constipation or diarrhea

Fatigue

Generalized weakness

Pericardial Mesothelioma

<1% of cases

Location: Heart

Chest pain

May worsen when lying down or breathing deeply

Heart palpitations

Irregular heartbeat

Difficulty breathing

Especially when lying flat

Fatigue

Due to reduced heart function

Swelling in legs

From fluid retention

Cough

May occur with fluid around heart

When to See a Doctor

If you have a history of asbestos exposure and experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor promptly:

  • Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
  • Shortness of breath during normal activities
  • Unexplained chest or abdominal pain
  • Unusual fatigue or weakness
  • Unintended weight loss of 10+ pounds
  • Difficulty swallowing

Tell your doctor about any known or potential asbestos exposure. This information is critical for proper diagnosis, as mesothelioma symptoms are easily mistaken for more common conditions.

Symptom Timeline

Mesothelioma symptoms typically progress through stages:

Early Stage

Mild symptoms like occasional cough or minor discomfort. Often dismissed or attributed to aging.

Moderate Stage

Symptoms become more persistent and noticeable. May include fluid buildup, pain, and fatigue.

Advanced Stage

Severe symptoms including significant pain, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and weakness.

All Mesothelioma Symptoms

Click on any symptom below to learn more about its causes, how it relates to mesothelioma, and when to seek medical attention.

Abdominal Distension Abdominal Swelling or Tenderness Anemia Bowel Obstruction Chest Pains Chills Cough Coughing up Blood Difficulty Breathing Fatigue Feeling of Fullness Fever Fluid Buildup Heart Failure Heart Palpitations Hernias Irregular Heartbeat Loss of Appetite Lumps Under Abdominal Skin Lumps Under Skin of the Chest Murmurs Night Sweats Pain Pressure on the Heart Reduced Chest Expansion Shortness of Breath Vomiting Weight Loss Wheezing

Seeking Diagnosis

If your doctor suspects mesothelioma based on symptoms and exposure history, they may order:

  • Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRI)
  • Blood tests for mesothelioma biomarkers
  • Tissue biopsy for definitive diagnosis
  • PET scan to determine cancer spread
Learn about diagnosis →