Mesothelioma Symptoms

Because other diseases can cause similar symptoms, mesothelioma often is not diagnosed until it has spread. Symptoms vary from person to person. Many are caused by fluid building up in the chest (known as pleural effusion) and/or the tumor pressing on the lungs.

Common symptoms of mesothelioma include:

• Shortness of breath
• Constant, uninterrupted chest or abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Collapsed lung

Less common symptoms include:

• Persistent coughing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blood in sputum (phlegm) coughed up from the lungs
• Difficulty swallowing
• Prolonged hoarseness
• Nausea
• Low oxygen levels

If you have one or more of these symptoms, it does not mean you have mesothelioma. However, it is important to discuss any symptoms with your doctor. They may indicate other health problems.

In rare cases, mesothelioma can be passed down from one generation to the next. Genetic counseling may be right for you. Visit our genetic testing page to learn more.