Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of a Rare Heart Lining Cancer
Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that forms in the protective sac around the heart. Because it shares symptoms with much more common heart and lung conditions, it’s often misdiagnosed—sometimes for months or even years. But for individuals with a history of asbestos exposure, recognizing the warning signs could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.
Why Symptoms Are Often Missed
Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms overlap with:
Pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining)
Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Coronary artery disease
Lung infections or pleuritis
Because the disease is so rare, most doctors aren’t looking for it—especially without a clear history of asbestos exposure. That’s why awareness is critical.
Common Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma
🔹 Chest Pain
What it feels like: Persistent, sharp, or pressure-like pain in the chest.
Why it happens: Tumor growth or inflammation puts pressure on nerves in the pericardium.
🔹 Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
What it feels like: Difficulty breathing, even at rest or during mild exertion.
Why it happens: Fluid or tumors in the pericardium restrict lung expansion and heart function.
🔹 Irregular Heartbeat or Palpitations
What it feels like: Pounding, fluttering, or skipped heartbeats.
Why it happens: Tumors can disrupt the heart’s electrical signals or interfere with blood flow.
🔹 Pericardial Effusion (Fluid Around the Heart)
What it feels like: Chest tightness, trouble breathing, or a sense of pressure.
Why it happens: The body produces excess fluid in response to cancer, which builds up and compresses the heart.
This is often one of the earliest detectable signs on imaging tests.
🔹 Fatigue and Weakness
What it feels like: Ongoing exhaustion, even after rest.
Why it happens: The heart may not pump efficiently, leading to reduced oxygen delivery and energy levels.
🔹 Cough or Hoarseness
What it feels like: A dry, persistent cough or raspy voice.
Why it happens: Tumors can press on the lungs or vocal nerves, especially in advanced cases.
Advanced Symptoms
If the disease progresses, other symptoms may appear:
Swelling in the legs or abdomen (edema): Caused by impaired circulation
Low blood pressure: Resulting from reduced cardiac output
Severe breathlessness: Due to extreme fluid accumulation
Dizziness or fainting: Caused by poor blood flow from the heart
Why Symptoms Matter
Early symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are often subtle—but they matter. Recognizing the signs and pushing for deeper evaluation can lead to earlier diagnosis, which:
Opens the door to more treatment options
Allows time to plan care and support
Improves survival odds
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos—even decades ago—and are now experiencing unexplained heart or chest symptoms, talk to a doctor and mention your exposure history.
Free Asbestos Health Testing Available
We offer free asbestos exposure screenings for individuals who have:
A history of occupational or secondary exposure
Unexplained symptoms like chest pain, fluid buildup, or irregular heartbeat
A family history of asbestos-related diseases
📞 Call 833-4-ASBESTOS
Or schedule a free health review today.