The mediastinum is the central chest compartment between the lungs. When something grows or inflames there, it pushes on nearby airways, vessels, and nerves, so symptoms feel “deep” and hard to pinpoint.

Chest pressure is the hallmark. It feels like a weight or tight band behind the breastbone, worse with deep breaths or lying flat.

Dry cough shows up early. It’s hacking and non-productive, caused by the mass irritating the airway.

Shortness of breath creeps in. You puff climbing one flight or can’t finish a sentence while walking.

Hoarseness or voice change appears if the tumor presses on the nerve to the voice box.

Swelling in the face or arms can occur if major veins are squeezed.

Late signs include fever, night sweats, weight loss, or coughing up blood—an alarm that the disease is severe or malignant.