Symptoms of mesothelioma

Mesothelioma often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms may appear as the cancer grows. General symptoms may include night sweats and weight loss.

Other symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:

breathing problems, such as shortness of breath or wheezing
a cough that gets worse or does not go away
pain in the lower back or side of the chest
a hoarse voice
difficulty swallowing

Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:

pain in the abdomen
changes to digestion, such as nausea, vomiting or a loss of appetite
changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
a lump that can be felt in the abdomen
swelling in the abdomen (ascites)

Other health problems can cause some of the same symptoms. More testing is needed to make a diagnosis.

For more information on mesothelioma, please e-mail us or call our Cancer Information Service toll-free at 1 888 939-3333.

Last modified on: 10 December 2009