2. Shortness of Breath: The Struggle for Every Breath
One of the primary functions of our lungs is to facilitate the breathing process. When affected by mesothelioma, the lung’s capacity to expand and contract can be hindered.
This restriction manifests as shortness of breath, even with minimal exertion. A simple task like walking up a flight of stairs or even getting up from a chair might leave the individual gasping for air.
The intricacies of this symptom can be multifaceted. For starters, the sensation isn’t just about not getting enough air. It’s often described as a feeling of tightness or constriction in the chest, making deep inhalations challenging. This sensation can be sporadic or persistent, depending on the progression of the disease. (2)