What to Know if You've Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma

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Mesothelioma is one of the rarest cancers you can experience in the United States, with only about 3,000 new cases each year. This disorder most often comes from asbestos exposure, which does not occur as often as it did in the twentieth century. IF you have this diagnosis, you may wonder what it is, what it affects, and what treatment options are available. Thankfully, you can find help and obtain compensation, especially if your case comes from asbestos exposure. You can learn more about your diagnosis and all the circumstances surrounding it with the information in the below article.

What is Mesothelioma? What Does It Have to Do with Asbestos?

Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer that comes from asbestos exposure. It was not until the late twentieth century that experts found out more about the danger this material causes. Asbestos can also lead to other forms of lung cancer and asbestosis. The Clean Air Act of 1970 labeled asbestos as a hazardous pollutant, but it is still legal under the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency. The United States has extensive laws about this material, including requiring homes built before 1970 to have an asbestos inspection. Mesothelioma occurs when tumors form on the mesothelium after asbestos fibers become stuck or lodged.

Who is Most at Risk of Mesothelioma?

Individuals most at risk of mesothelioma are those with frequent exposure to asbestos. Indirect contact can also lead to a diagnosis, especially if the fibers get on a person's body while at work. That employee will bring the asbestos into their home, increasing the risk of it affecting their spouse or children. Veterans are some of the most at risk of mesothelioma, especially those individuals who resided on Navy ships. Firefighters, electricians, mechanics, and metalworkers are also at risk of exposure and diagnosis. They have frequent contact with old building materials.

Can You Get Compensated for a Mesothelioma Diagnosis?

There is compensation available if you have a diagnosis of mesothelioma. Consider the Georgia Pacific asbestos trust if you worked for this company or had exposure to asbestos from one of their products. If you already have your diagnosis, you need to work quickly. You do not have much time for your lawsuit and must file a claim quickly. Hire a strong team of lawyers who will work with you to get you the maximum compensation. Several class action lawsuits already exist.

What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

Most of the time, trace amounts of asbestos do not lead to mesothelioma. You will get the exposure that leads to this diagnosis with continuous exposure. You likely noticed specific symptoms before your diagnosis, including those in the list below.

• Chest pain around the rib cage

• Pain when coughing

• Noticeable and palpable lumps on the chest

• Unexplained weight loss

• Shortness of breath

If the mesothelioma spreads to your abdomen, you will experience additional symptoms, including those below.

• Palpable lumps in the abdomen

• Excessive pain in the abdomen

• Swelling and bloating

• Unexplainable weight loss

How Do Medical Professionals Treat Mesothelioma?

The specific kind of mesothelioma you have will determine the course of treatment your doctor will take. They will also discuss with you the stage of your cancer. Most often, doctors recommend surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. There are some chemical trials available that offer biological treatments, photodynamic therapy, Cediranib, and immunotherapy. The survival rate is lower for mesothelioma than for other cancers, but there is always hope.

Dealing with a Diagnosis of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a terrifying diagnosis, but there is help available. This diagnosis likely came from former asbestos exposure, especially if you worked in an industry that used or encountered old building materials. When you received your diagnosis, you likely encountered several symptoms, depending on the location of the tumor. If the mesothelioma was in your lungs, you likely experienced shortness of breath, pain, and felt palpable lumps. Thankfully, there is treatment available, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and clinical trials. You can also work with an experienced legal team to seek compensation for your diagnosis. Asbestos is a harmful chemical, and you deserve payment for your experiences.