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What Are the First Signs of Mesothelioma?

October 16, 2023

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Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining around the lungs.

While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, life expectancy will depend on the type of cancer the patient has been diagnosed with and whether the disease is caught early or has progressed. You should recognize the early symptoms of the disease, which may include shortness of breath and a persistent cough, so you can seek immediate treatment. Other signs of mesothelioma include:

• Chest pain or abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Difficulty breathing
• Fluid buildup
• Pain in the shoulder or chest

What Are the Different Types of Mesothelioma?

The type of cancer you are diagnosed with depends on where the disease originated. There are four main types of mesothelioma:

• Pleural mesothelioma: This type of cancer forms in the soft tissue lining of the lung. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and accounts for approximately 75 percent of all cases. The most common symptoms include:
  • Chest pain
  • Dry cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Back pain
• Peritoneal mesothelioma: This is the second most common type of mesothelioma, which accounts for 15 to 20 percent of cases. It affects the organs in the abdomen and the abdominal cavity. Symptoms include:
  • Abdominal pain
  • Accumulation of fluid
  • Changes in bowel habits
• Pericardial mesothelioma: This affects the lining around the heart, known as the pericardium. It is one of the rarest forms of mesothelioma. Symptoms include:
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Heart murmurs or palpitations
  • Shortness of breath
• Testicular mesothelioma: This is the rarest form of mesothelioma, representing less than one percent of all cases. Common symptoms include
  • Enlarged scrotum
  • Fluid in the scrotum
  • Swollen testes
  • Testicular pain

Philadelphia Mesothelioma Attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler Represent Clients Diagnosed With Asbestos Diseases

If you or a loved one was diagnosed with mesothelioma and need legal help, contact our Philadelphia mesothelioma attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler as soon as possible. We understand how devastating this diagnosis is and will fight for you to recover the financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 215-569-4000 or contact us online. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including Delaware County, Chester County, and Philadelphia County.