In its early stages, mesothelioma does not have many symptoms, whether it is in the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). When symptoms do develop, they are often caused by the cancer growing and pressing on a nerve or other body organ.

The symptoms mentioned below can be caused by illnesses other than mesothelioma. But if you have these symptoms, see your doctor. This is particularly important if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past.

The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Sweating and high temperatures
• A persistent cough
• Losing weight when not dieting
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty swallowing
• A hoarse or husky voice

Some people have changes in the shape of their fingers and nails called finger clubbing.

The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma

The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are

• Pain in the abdomen (tummy)
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Feeling or being sick
• Poor appetite
• Losing weight when not dieting
• Diarrhoea or constipation

Types of mesothelioma

There are 2 main types of mesothelioma

• Mesothelioma in the covering of the lung (pleural mesothelioma)
• Mesothelioma in the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma)
  

Pleural mesothelioma starts in the sheets of tissue that cover the lungs. Peritoneal mesothelioma grows in the tissue lining the inside of the abdomen (tummy). Pleural mesothelioma is much more common than peritoneal mesothelioma.