In the past, asbestos was common in a variety of industries, including shipyard workers and maritime workers. Asbestos fibers are dangerous and when inhaled, lung cancer and mesothelioma are risks. Even those who were not directly exposed can suffer because of asbestos. Secondhand exposure is a common occurrence.
If you know that you have had exposure to asbestos, do you know the symptoms and signs of mesothelioma? There are four different types of mesothelioma, according to the American Cancer Society.
General
The onset of general mesothelioma comes with a number of symptoms. You may experience a fever and excessive sweating. Additionally, you may deal with fatigue, a loss of appetite and weight loss. You might also have blood clots.
Peritoneal
The peritoneum forms the lining of your stomach cavity. This is where this form of mesothelioma gets its name. The symptoms include nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, swelling and/or fluid in the abdomen.
Pleural
The pleura are thin membranes on the surface of your lungs. When you have this form of mesothelioma, you may experience a number of symptoms. These symptoms include hoarseness, trouble swallowing, shortness of breath, pain in the lower back or side of the chest, a cough and swelling in the arms and face.
Pericardial
The pericardium membrane surrounds your heart. Often, the symptoms of this form affect the heart. The symptoms for this form of mesothelioma include an irregular heart rhythm, heart murmurs, shortness of breath and chest pain.
Most mesothelioma symptoms can also be signs of other conditions. Most who have the disease have symptoms months before a diagnosis. Find out more about mesothelioma on our website.