Chest Pain: A Common Symptom of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is an incurable form of advanced lung cancer caused by prior exposure to asbestos.  Malignant pleural mesothelioma begins when an asbestos fiber becomes inhaled and lodges in the pleura, or thin membrane sac surrounding the lung.  There is a long latency period, up to sixty years, between the time the asbestos enters the body and cancer develops.

One of the most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma is chest pain, shortness of breath, and painful coughing.   About 40% of those diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma will experience chest pain and shortness of breath, especially as tumors grow and put pressure on different internal organs.  Most importantly, there are pain management techniques that can help.

One pain management method is palliative chemotherapy, intended not to cure the cancer but to relieve symptoms and help the patient to feel more comfortable.  Another option is to use narcotics to manage pain and other prescription medications to help stop persistent coughing.  Lastly, a therapy known as chest physiotherapy that can be taught to home caregivers is another option to remove blockages in the lungs, open airways and make breathing easier.

For more information on this, read Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma and Shortness of Breath.

To experience severe chest pain or shortness of breath can be quite scary for patients and caregivers alike.  As the disease progresses, sometimes emergency procedures are required, like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

All of this can cause a great deal of anxiety.  So in addition to knowing what medical options are available, other holistic methods can also be very helpful to alleviate anxiety that can accompany these symptoms.   Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, prayer and meditation, and visual guided imagery can be very useful in reducing fear and anxiety.

Hospice and palliative nurses are very experienced in helping patients and caregivers manage the symptoms of mesothelioma.  We strongly encourage all patients to ask for this type of support.

Clapper, Patti, Schweizer & Mason’s website also has a list of resources and treatment centers that specialize in mesothelioma.  We also have an informational booklet on mesothelioma that lists many resources.  We hope that the information we offer provides some comfort and support to you and your family.

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