6. Difficulty Swallowing: The Overlooked Red Flag
Having trouble swallowing, medically termed as dysphagia, might not immediately ring alarm bells. However, when seen in someone with a history of asbestos exposure, it should not be dismissed. As mesothelioma progresses, tumors might develop near the esophagus, leading to this symptom.
Initially, the difficulty might be subtle. A slight discomfort when swallowing solid foods might be the only indicator. But with time, even liquids might pose a challenge. It’s not just about the physical obstruction caused by tumor growth; inflammation or nerve involvement can also play a role.
Coupled with this is the potential for coughing or choking during meals. This can be a direct consequence of the swallowing challenge and can make meal times stressful. There’s also a risk of aspiration, where food particles might enter the lungs, leading to further complications.
On a broader scale, this difficulty can have nutritional implications. If eating becomes a challenge, there’s a risk of reduced food intake, leading to weight loss and malnutrition. Monitoring this symptom and seeking timely intervention can prevent these cascading effects. (6)
