Shortness of Breath with Mesothelioma: Causes Medical Treatments and Coping Strategies

Shortness of breath, also called dyspnea, is one of the most common symptoms our clients with mesothelioma describe. It can range from mild breathlessness during activity to severe difficulty breathing even at rest.

What Causes Shortness of Breath in Mesothelioma

• Tumor growth — tumors can physically restrict lung expansion or press on airways
• Pleural effusion — fluid buildup between the lung and chest wall reduces the lung’s ability to expand; see our guide to pleural effusion
• Asbestosis-related scarring — lung tissue scarring from asbestos exposure reduces lung capacity over time
• Involvement of the lung lining — cancer affecting the pleura itself can restrict normal breathing mechanics

Medical Treatments That Can Help

• Draining fluid — thoracentesis or a PleurX catheter can relieve pressure caused by pleural effusion
• Supplemental oxygen — helps maintain adequate oxygen levels and reduce the sensation of breathlessness
• Medications — certain drugs can help ease breathing discomfort and reduce anxiety associated with dyspnea
• Treating the cancer itself — chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery may shrink tumors and improve breathing over time

Non-Medical Coping Strategies

• Fan therapy — a gentle stream of air directed at the face can reduce the sensation of breathlessness
• Positioning — sitting upright or leaning forward slightly can make breathing easier
• Pursed-lip breathing — breathing out slowly through pursed lips helps keep airways open longer

When to Seek Emergency Care

Certain warning signs mean you should seek emergency medical attention right away:

• Sudden, severe shortness of breath that comes on quickly
• Chest pain accompanying the breathing difficulty
• Blue-tinged lips or fingernails
• Confusion or disorientation
• Signs of a possible heart attack, such as pressure in the chest, pain radiating to the arm or jaw, or sweating

If you or a loved one experiences any of these warning signs, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.

Talk to Cohen, Placitella & Roth About Your Diagnosis

Shortness of breath can be frightening, but a combination of medical treatment and coping strategies can meaningfully improve day-to-day comfort. Our mesothelioma attorneys have represented patients and families for more than 40 years. Contact Cohen, Placitella & Roth for a free consultation. Call us at (888) 324-7683 or contact us online. We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding diagnosis and treatment, and a qualified attorney regarding your legal rights. Cohen, Placitella & Roth, P.C. is licensed to practice in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other jurisdictions, and represents clients nationwide with qualified co-counsel.