What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the thin lining of tissue that covers the internal organs, known as the mesothelium. It is most commonly found in the lining of the lungs, but can also occur in the lining of the abdomen and heart.
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries in the past. Asbestos fibers are extremely small and can be inhaled or ingested, leading to the development of mesothelioma.
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear for decades after asbestos exposure, making it difficult to diagnose in the early stages. Common symptoms mesothelioma victims experience include chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
There are six common symptoms to account for:
- Shortness of breath and chest pain. These can be caused by fluid accumulation in the chest (pleural effusion) or by the tumor pressing on the lung.
- Abdominal pain and swelling. These can be caused by fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) or by the tumor pressing on internal organs.
- Weight loss. This can be a sign of the body’s inability to get enough nutrition due to cancer.
- Fatigue. This can be a result of cancer itself or the body’s reaction to treatment.
- Coughing up blood. This can be caused by the tumor damaging the blood vessels in the lung.
- Difficulty swallowing. This can be caused by the tumor pressing on the esophagus.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are four different kinds of mesothelioma:
- Pleural mesothelioma — the most common type of mesothelioma, accounting for about 75% of cases. It affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and a persistent cough.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma — affects the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling, and weight loss.
- Pericardial mesothelioma — a rare type of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the heart (pericardium). It can cause symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing.
- Testicular mesothelioma — an extremely rare type of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the testicles (tunica vaginalis). It can cause symptoms such as swelling in the scrotum and testicle pain.
Why You Need to Act Fast Following a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
It’s important to act quickly after a mesothelioma diagnosis because cancer can progress rapidly and may require prompt treatment. Additionally, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in the later stages of the disease, when cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. This can make treatment more difficult and may reduce the effectiveness of certain therapies.
Acting quickly allows you to get started on treatment as soon as possible, which may help to slow the progression of cancer and improve your prognosis. It also allows you to get a second opinion from another specialist if you choose to do so, which can help you to make informed decisions about your treatment.
Finally, acting quickly may also allow you to participate in clinical trials or experimental treatments, which can provide access to new and potentially more effective therapies.
What If I or Someone I Know Has Mesothelioma?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. A mesothelioma law firm is knowledgeable about the specific laws and regulations that apply to asbestos exposure and can help you navigate the legal process.
There are a number of legal options available to those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. These may include filing a personal injury mesothelioma lawsuit against the party or parties responsible for your exposure to asbestos, as well as seeking compensation through asbestos trust funds or other resources.
An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you explore your legal options and determine the best course of action for your mesothelioma claim. Mesothelioma lawyers can also provide you with guidance and support throughout the asbestos litigation process, and help you seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
In addition to seeking compensation through the legal system, there are also a number of resources available to mesothelioma patients. These may include financial assistance programs, support groups, and other resources to help you cope with the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of the disease.
Contact a Mesothelioma Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to act quickly in order to protect your legal rights. Do not hesitate to seek the advice of our experienced mesothelioma lawyers. Our mesothelioma attorneys can help you understand your options and advocate for your rights.
With the right legal representation and support, you can seek the compensation and resources you need to cope with the challenges of mesothelioma and move forward with hope and determination.
