Mesothelioma typically has a long latency period, meaning that many years will pass between exposure to asbestos and the development of the disease. In fact, patients with mesothelioma typically do not manifest symptoms until several decades after the initial asbestos exposure. Because mesothelioma symptoms mimic those of less serious diseases, many patients who develop asbestos cancer are unaware of their potentially life-threatening condition.

Individuals with a history of asbestos exposure should schedule an appointment with their doctors to screen for asbestos-related diseases. Because mesothelioma does not present early symptoms, individuals who were in contact with asbestos should inform their doctor of their exposure. Patients who have a history of asbestos exposure but are not exhibiting symptoms should receive chest x-rays or lung function tests to screen for any indications of asbestos-related diseases.

The most common form of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma forms in the lining of the lungs. Common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include the following: persistent dry or raspy cough; trouble swallowing; cough that produces blood; painful breathing; shortness of breath; chest or rib pain; night sweats/fever; and unexplained weight loss. Fatigue and lumps under the skin of the chest have also been reported in patients with pleural mesothelioma. Many symptoms of pleural mesothelioma occur as a result of pleural thickening, which is caused by fluid buildup between membrane layers. Pleural thickening and fluid buildup can put pressure on the lungs, causing problems with respiratory function.

Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdomen and makes up approximately 30% of all mesothelioma cases. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can include swelling or pain in the abdomen, nausea and vomiting and a change in bowel habits. Peritoneal mesothelioma can also cause night sweats, fever, unexplained weight loss, anemia, fatigue and lumps under the skin of the abdomen. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma develop due to the thickening of the peritoneal membrane and fluid buildup between the membrane layers. This can put pressure on the abdomen and its organs, causing the patient to experience symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma.

The least common form of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma develops in the sac surrounding the heart. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include heart palpitations, chest pain, fatigue, trouble breathing, fever and night sweats. These symptoms are caused by fluid buildup and the thickening of the pericardial membrane. Because pericardial mesothelioma is rare, its list of symptoms is not as comprehensive as other forms of mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose and typically has a poor prognosis.

Individuals experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma should seek medical attention immediately. Although mesothelioma shares symptoms with a number of less serious diseases, it’s important to receive a firm diagnosis as soon as possible. Although the overall prognosis for mesothelioma is poor, patients diagnosed in the earlier stages typically have a better outlook.

Learning of a mesothelioma diagnosis can be devastating for both mesothelioma patients and their loved ones. Dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial issues resulting from this condition is often extremely taxing and can leave mesothelioma patients feeling anxious and overwhelmed. In order to help individuals with mesothelioma cancer cope with challenges associated with their disease, mesothelioma support groups have been established throughout the country. The purpose of these organizations is to provide an opportunity for members to share their experiences, learn from one another, and gain comfort from knowing that they are not alone in their struggle with mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma cancer support groups can vary in the way that they are run and the types of things that they focus on, so it is important to find a group that meets your needs and matches your personality. For example, some groups are run by a health care professional, such as a psychologist or social worker. Other groups, known as peer groups or self-help groups, are led by group members who have no special medical training. Some mesothelioma support organizations are more structured and focused on practical matters related to the disease, such as how to manage the negative side effects of mesothelioma treatments. Other groups choose to emphasize emotional support and the sharing of personal experiences. If you are a mesothelioma patient who is interested in joining a mesothelioma support group, you may have to go to a few different meetings in order to find a group that you are comfortable with.

There are several options for finding a mesothelioma support group in your area. First, you can ask your mesothelioma doctor if he or she has any suggestions about local groups you can join. Second, try consulting with the nurses or social workers at your mesothelioma treatment center to see if they can provide you with information about local mesothelioma support programs. Third, check with your mesothelioma hospital’s social services department and find out if they can give you a list of cancer support programs in the area. Finally, some individuals with mesothelioma find ways to connect with other mesothelioma patients by using the Internet. Joining an online cancer support group or posting on a mesothelioma message board can help mesothelioma patients connect with other people affected by this disease.

Dealing with a mesothelioma diagnosis is never easy, but there are sources of support available for mesothelioma patients. Joining a mesothelioma support group may not be for everyone, but for many patients, these organizations provide invaluable comfort and assurance during this difficult period. In addition to support groups, family members, friends, and religious leaders are often an important source of support for mesothelioma patients.