Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that commonly affects the linings of the lungs or the abdomen. This cancer develops when an individual inhales or swallows asbestos fibers and can take 20 to 60 years to manifest after exposure.  If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may consider filing a mesothelioma lawsuit against the at-fault party (usually your employer or product manufacturer) for financial compensation.

However, to win your lawsuit, you must prove that you are suffering from mesothelioma in the first place. Which raises the question: what are the telltale signs that you might have contracted mesothelioma?

Here are the earliest symptoms of mesothelioma that you need to look out for:

Pleural mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the cases. This form of mesothelioma develops within the pleura, the protective tissues that cover the linings of the lungs and chest. Early symptoms of pleural mesothelioma may include the following:

• Breathing difficulty and shortening of breath
• Swelling of the face and limbs
• Chest pain
• Persistent dry cough

Peritoneal mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum, the abdomen’s protective lining. This form of mesothelioma commonly attacks the liver, spleen, stomach and intestinal lining. Early symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include the following:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Changes in bowel movement
• Abdominal pain and fluid build-up in the abdomen
• Weight loss
• Night sweats

Pericardial mesothelioma

This form of cancer affects the pericardium, the lining that protects the heart. As cancer progresses, it causes tissue inflammation that results in the tightening and constriction of the heart muscles. Early symptoms of this cancer may include:

• Breathing difficulty
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeats
• A build-up of fluids in the heart
• Tightness of the chest

Like other forms of cancer, mesothelioma can be very costly to manage. Detecting the early symptoms of mesothelioma can ensure that you file your mesothelioma lawsuit in time and get the financial support you need to manage the disease.