Mesothelioma sypmtoms and illness do not occur directly following exposure to asbestos, there is usually a long period of time between exposure to the asbestos and the appearance of the disease. Early stage symptoms can be confused with other illnesses or attributed to lifestyle issues like obesity, smoking, or physical inactivity. If you have been exposed to asbestos you should let your doctor know, especially since mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer.

People with mesothelioma might notice pain or sensation of heaviness or fullness in their chest or abdomen. Shortness of breath is typical when pleural tissue is involved and swelling of the abdomen if the peritoneal tissue is involved. Typical symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, weight loss, and sexual dysfunction. Some people may experience deformation of the chest wall and abdominal masses that may obstruct the bowel in later stages of the disease.