Mesothelioma Symptoms SYMPTOMS OF PLEURAL, PERITONEAL, AND PERICARDIAL MESOTHELIOMA What are the symptoms of Mesothelioma? Pleural Mesothelioma causes a buildup of tumor tissue surrounding the lung. Fluid can build up in the pleural space, preventing the lungs from moving easily and expanding naturally. Pressure on the lungs caused by this buildup leads to pain and shortness of breath; two of the most common symptoms. If you are experiencing unexplained shortness of breath or pain in the chest area, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. An individual with pleural mesothelioma (cancer in the lining around the lungs) may also experience: Difficulty swallowing A persistent cough Coughing up blood Fever Sweating Fatigue Weight loss Back pain Pneumonia An individual with peritoneal mesothelioma (cancer in the lining around the stomach) may experience: Pain or swelling of the abdomen Swelling of the feet Nausea Vomiting Hernia Difficult bowel mov...