Malignant mesothelioma is known to have a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas main symptom is shortness of breath as a consequence of pleural effusion ” the buildup of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. Another common symptomis chest pain due to the tumor invading the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The primary symptomof patients with peritoneal mesothelioma, which originates in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, pain in the abdomen, and blockage of the bowel.

It is key to understand that many of these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Mesothelioma cancer is problematic to diagnose, because the symptoms are also experienced in less serious health issues. Symptoms typical for mesothelioma:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest or lower back pains due to accumulated fluid in the pleura
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Spitting up blood

Do not attempt self-diagnosis. One suffering from any of the above symptoms should see a doctor and remain calm. The standard way to confirm the condition is with a biopsy. A pathologist takes a sample of tissue from the suspicious area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Biopsies are generally not painful.

Another option is a CT (Computed Tomography) scan. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. 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. Beliefs vary whether a biopsy or scan is more cost-effective. If there are irregularities, a biopsy may be needed on top of the CT scan to confirm whether or not the irregularity is a tumor, and if thats the case, if its malignant or benign. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is also possible by looking for cancer cells in a sample of fluid from the pleura.

Any of these methods may also be used to screen for mesothelioma. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to catch the cancer early or to make sure the patient is not otherwise in danger. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.