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  1. About Mud
    1. When Did Joint Compound Contain Asbestos?
    2. Manufacturers and Distributors of Asbestos-Containing Joint Compounds
    3. Drywall vs. Plaster Installation
    4. Job sites in New York Where Joint Compound Was Used
      1. University At Buffalo
        1. University at Buffalo’s North Campus and Exposure to Asbestos
        2. University at Buffalo Image Gallery
        3. Our Clients Describe Their Asbestos Exposure at the University at Buffalo
          1. Electrician describes his exposure to asbestos during the construction of the U.B. Law School
          2. Plasterer describes the use of asbestos-containing fireproofing at the University at Buffalo
      2. Amherst Central High School
      3. Cornell University
        1. Cornell University Image Gallery
      4. Emerson Vocational School
      5. Hudson Plastering Corporation
      6. Marine Midland Center
      7. Marine Midland Plaza, Rochester
      8. Mercy Hospital
      9. Monroe Community College
      10. Rochester Davis-Fetch Corporation
      11. 9 more items...
  2. Exposure to Joint Compound
    1. Home Exposure to Joint Compound
    2. Building Renovations and Asbestos Abatement
    3. Exposure Through Drywall Installation
      1. Exposure Through Set-Up and Mixing
      2. Exposure Through Sanding
      3. Exposure Through Clean-Up
  3. U.S. Government Position on Asbestos
    1. Failure to Warn
    2. Countries That Have Banned Asbestos
  4. Mesothelioma & Joint Compound
    1. What is Mesothelioma?
    2. Symptoms of Mesothelioma
    3. Mesothelioma Diagnosis
    4. Legal Claims for Mesothelioma
    5. Joint Compound Legal Decisions
    6. Settlements for Joint Compound Workers
    7. Questions About Our Mesothelioma Practice
    8. Mesothelioma Book Request

Home > Mesothelioma & Joint Compound > Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Early-stage symptoms of mesothelioma are non-specific and similar to the symptoms of less serious illnesses, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. An individual suffering from mesothelioma may consider subtle symptoms, including fatigue, night sweats and coughing an everyday ailment and ignore warning signs. Between ten and fifty years may elapse between initial exposure to asbestos and the development of mesothelioma.

Pleural mesothelioma affects the pleural membrane that surrounds the lungs, and it is the most common form of mesothelioma. Since its symptoms may mimic a less serious condition, it is best to seek immediate medical advice if you have the following symptoms:

  • Persistent dry or raspy cough with little or no phlegm
  • Coughing up blood
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Night sweats or fever
  • Persistent chest pain that occurs in the rib area
  • Shortness of breath occurring even at rest
  • Painful breathing

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a less common form of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the abdominal cavity known as the peritoneum. This form of mesothelioma can also mimic conditions of a less serious nature, such as ulcers and indigestion, so it is best to seek medical advice if the following symptoms continue or worsen:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Swelling or pain in the abdomen
  • Fatigue
  • Night sweats or fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation (changes in normal bowel habits for a prolonged time period)
  • Anemia

Pericardial mesothelioma is an extremely rare form of mesothelioma and accounts for about 5% of mesothelioma cases. Pericardial mesothelioma affects the pericardial membrane lining the heart, leading to impaired cardiac function. Pericardial mesothelioma can mimic other conditions of the heart such as congestive heart disease and heart attacks. If you have any of the below symptoms, you must seek immediate medical advice:

  • Chest pains
  • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty breathing, even at rest
  • Night sweats or fever