Mesothelioma Treatment

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery,

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Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete

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Mesothelioma Symptoms

In its early stages, mesothelioma does not have many symptoms. When symptoms do develop, they are often caused by the cancer growing and pressing on a nerve or other body organ.

The symptoms of the 2 main types of mesothelioma are different.

Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms are:

• Pain in the lower back or the side of the chest
• A persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• A hoarse or husky voice
• Losing more than 10% of your weight when not dieting
• Sweating and fevers
• Difficulty swallowing

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms are:

• Pain in the abdomen (stomach)
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Feeling or being sick
• Poor appetite
• Losing more than 10% of your weight when not dieting
• Diahrea or constipation

These symptoms are all more likely to be caused by some other illness, rather than by mesothelioma. But if you have these symptoms, see your doctor. This is particularly important if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past.