What are the Symptoms of Advanced Mesothelioma?
October 14, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testes. In advanced stages, the cancer has spread extensively, and the symptoms become more severe and debilitating. Common symptoms of advanced mesothelioma may include:
- Severe Chest Pain:
- Intense and persistent chest pain due to the tumor’s growth and invasion of the chest wall, ribs, or nearby structures.
- Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea):
- Significant and persistent shortness of breath, especially at rest or during minimal physical activity, caused by fluid buildup or tumor compression in the lungs.
- Cough and Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis):
- Chronic cough that may produce blood, usually due to tumor invasion or irritation of the respiratory tract.
- Unexplained Weight Loss:
- Rapid and unintentional weight loss, often due to the advanced cancer’s metabolic effects.
- Fatigue and Weakness:
- Extreme tiredness, lack of energy, and generalized weakness, making daily activities challenging.
- Anemia:
- Low red blood cell count, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and paleness.
- Loss of Appetite:
- Reduced or complete loss of appetite, leading to significant weight loss.
- Fluid Accumulation (Effusion):
- Buildup of fluid in the chest or abdomen, causing discomfort, pain, or difficulty breathing.
- Hoarseness:
- Changes in the voice or hoarseness due to tumor invasion of the laryngeal nerves or nearby structures.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia):
- Trouble swallowing food or liquids, which can be caused by the tumor obstructing the esophagus.
- Swelling of the Neck and Face:
- Swelling of the neck, face, or arms due to lymph node involvement or pressure on blood vessels.
- Night Sweats and Fever:
- Recurrent night sweats and low-grade fever, often indicative of an inflammatory response to the cancer.
- Bone Pain:
- Pain in the bones, especially in areas where the cancer has spread (metastasis), like the spine, hips, or pelvis.
- Neurological Symptoms:
- Neurological deficits or symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, or difficulty with coordination if the cancer has spread to the nervous system.
Advanced mesothelioma is challenging to treat, and the focus is often on providing palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you suspect you or someone you know has advanced mesothelioma, immediate medical attention and consultation with an oncologist are crucial for appropriate evaluation and management.