Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose, primarily due to the
non-specific nature of patient symptoms. The onset of mesothelioma symptoms is
usually very slow, and may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to
asbestos. The following symptoms are frequently reported by those with mesothelioma, but are also associated with other medical conditions.
The following symptomatic responses MAY BE caused by mesothelioma, or by other
less serious medical problems. Early symptoms of mesothelioma are often similar
to pneumonia. This information is provided for your information
only, and should NOT take the place of a full medical diagnosis. If you are
experiencing any of the below symptoms, consult your doctor right away.
Symptoms of Pleural
Mesothelioma
-
Pleural Effusions
One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is a pleural effusion, or an
accumulation of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity. As
the volume of fluid increases, shortness of breath, known as "dyspnea", and
sometimes pain may occur.
- Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing (dyspnea) can be caused by a buildup of fluid in the
pleural area of the lungs, and/or the presence of a tumor(s) in the pleural
lining. Both conditions can restrict the proper functioning of the lungs,
resulting in shortness of breath.
- Chest / Back Pain
A buildup of fluid in the pleural lining of the lungs can create a feeling
of fullness and pressure, causing areas of localized pain in the chest cavity
and sometimes in the lower back area. Chest pain occurs more often on the
right side of the body, as mesothelioma affects the right lung 60% of the
time. Only 5% of patients have mesothelioma in both lungs.
- Chronic Hoarseness / Difficulty Swallowing / Coughing up Blood
Chronic hoarseness, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and/or the coughing up
of blood (hemoptysis) are symptoms that are exhibited in less than 1% of
undiagnosed mesothelioma sufferers.
- Swelling of the Face and Arms
The swelling of the face or neck areas can indicate a spreading of the cancer
beyond the mesothelium.
- Other reported symptoms include fever, muscle weakness and sensory loss,
and nausea.
| Symptom |
% exhibiting |
| Shortness of breath and/or chest pain |
90% |
| Weight loss |
29% |
| Cough, weakness, fever, loss of appetite |
3% |
| Hemoptysis (coughing up blood), hoarseness, dysphagia
(difficulty swallowing). |
less than 1% |
| Pleural Effusions |
84% |
| Asymptomatic |
3% |
(source: "Diffuse malignant
mesothelioma of the pleura in Ontario and Quebec: a retrospective study of 332
patients." P Ruffie et al. Journal of Clinical Oncology Aug 1
1989: 1157-1168.)
Symptoms of Peritoneal
Mesothelioma
-
Pain or Swelling of the Abdomen
Symptoms of peritoneal
mesothelioma usually include abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of
fluid in the abdomen (ascites).
- Bowel Obstruction
A tumor in the peritoneum membranes can exert increasing pressure on the
organs in the abdomen, leading to bowel obstruction and distention.
- Weight Loss / Anemia
Abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, and the pressure exerted by the
presence of a tumor(s) can lead to a loss of appetite, nausea, weight loss,
anemia, and other 'wasting symptoms'.
- The presence of tumors in the peritoneal
tissues of the abdomen can also cause a frequency in urination, night sweats,
fever, and loss of muscle tissue.
The varied and non-specific symptoms associated
with mesothelioma, can delay detection and diagnosis. If you or a loved one are
experiencing any of the above symptoms, consult your doctor right away. Make
sure that your physician is aware of any previous asbestos exposure, and
occupational risk factors (click here for a list of at risk occupations).
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The large settlements and verdicts
associated with mesothelioma cases are not
accidental. Jurors who have the
opportunity to review the internal documents of
these manufacturers and sellers of these products
are outraged by the actual knowledge
of these corporations and access to knowledge
about the hazards of asbestos.
The Attorneys of Belluck & Fox, LLP
Bulluck & Fox represent a powerful ally in the pursuit of justice for asbestos related illness claims. At Belluck & Fox, we concentrate on representing you in your fight for justice so that you can concentrate on your primary concern – your quality of life. We have offices in New York City and Syracuse, Belluck & Fox and our attorneys represent injured workers and their families throughout New York State, including Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, Syracuse, Watertown, Ticonderoga, Woodstock, Massena, Rome, Utica, Binghamton, Elmira and Jamestown.
Mesothelioma and silicosis are debilitating and aggressive illnesses. It is important that you file a claim within a specified time period from the date that you receive your diagnosis. If you neglect to pursue litigation within the Statute of Limitations, you may lose your right to seek damages. Please contact us immediately to begin the claim process. You may complete the
Evaluation Form located on this website, or call Belluck & Fox toll-free at 1-877-NYLAW08.
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