Ascites - Fluid on the Abdomen

Shortness of Breath - Pleural Effusion

Shortness of Breath - Other Causes

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

Peritoneal - Fluid in the Abdomen

In peritoneal mesothelioma, fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity rather than the pleural cavity. This causes swelling of the abdomen which is uncomfortable and reduces appetite. This fluid can be drained in a procedure called paracentesis but there is no equivalent technique to pleurodesis (used in pleural mesothelioma) that reduces the chance of recurrence. Repeated paracenteses are sometimes required although eventually the situation often stabilises. As excessive fluid can squash the stomach it is sometimes helpful to use a drug that encourages stomach emptying such as regular metoclopramide.

Ascites - Fluid on the Abdomen

Shortness of Breath - Pleural Effusion

Shortness of Breath - Other Causes

Self-Help Techniques

Pain

Cough

Fatigue

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

Emotional Reactions

Other Symptoms

Peritoneal - Fluid in the Abdomen