Once trapped in the body, asbestos fibers cause cancerous cells to divide abnormally, resulting in the thickening of the pleural membrane layers and mesothelial cells, causing build-up of fluid (called pleural effusion). The fluid begins to put pressure on the lungs and the respiratory system in general, preventing normal breathing. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are largely caused by these developments and may include the following:
- Persistent dry or raspy cough
- Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
- Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
- Shortness of breath that occurs even when at rest (dyspnea)
- Persistent pain in the chest or rib area, or painful breathing
- Development of lumps under the skin on the chest
- Night sweats or fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
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