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Mesothelioma will show a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is shortness of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the accumulation of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain because the chest wall is being attacked by the tumor. Additional symptoms include night sweats, weight loss and exhaustion.

The most common signof patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is the swelling of the abdomen because of fluid accumulation (ascites), abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction.

It is key to understand that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Mesothelioma cancer is hard to identify, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest or lower back pain associated with an excess of fluid in the pleura
• Burning up
• Vomiting
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing up blood

Self-diagnosis should never be attempted. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. A biopsy is the primary way the condition is confirmed. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspected area and examines the biopsy which results in a very precise diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

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 considered an effective way of diagnosing the disease. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may also be needed to know if the abnormality is a tumor, and if so, if the tumor is benign or malignant. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by taking a sample of fluid from the pleura and testing it for the presence of cancer cells.

These methods can also diagnose and screen patients for mesothelioma. Screening is when patients who may suspect they are at risk are tested for the condition without displaying any symptoms, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. Patients should be screened for mesothelioma if they have a history of asbestos exposure.