Mesothelioma is a deadly and severe cancer that can affect individuals exposed to asbestos. It causes severe symptoms and has a low survival rate once diagnosed. Although rare, this aggressive illness can still affect people worldwide with devastating results. Reputable law firms, like Vogelzang Law, P.C., provide victims and their loved ones with all the assistance they need to prove and seek compensation for victims.
About 12% of pleural mesothelioma sufferers and 65% of peritoneal mesothelioma sufferers stay alive for five years or longer.
Understanding more about mesothelioma, its symptoms, and the remedy alternatives available is important for those tormented by it and their loved ones alike to get the right care. In this blog post, we will discuss various topics related to mesothelioma, such as its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
By understanding the disease further, you may be able to make informed decisions on how best to manage your situation or seek financial recourse.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Asbestos stands as the leading culprit behind the onset of mesothelioma. Prolonged and recurrent exposure to asbestos-laden materials like talc and older construction products significantly elevates the risk of developing mesothelioma.
Asbestos fibers accumulate in the protective linings of vital organs, leading to persistent irritation and DNA damage. Over time, this damage transforms healthy cells into cancerous ones, eventually forming mesothelioma tumors.
Occupational asbestos exposure affects people from various professions, like
- Construction workers
- Industrial laborers
- Firefighters
- Military veterans
- Others in related professions
For those with past asbestos exposure, vigilant monitoring for potential disease indicators through X-rays and various medical tests can aid in early cancer detection. It’s essential to inform your doctor about your history of exposure and seek guidance on the recommended testing frequency for timely intervention.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma often manifests with respiratory symptoms, including persistent coughing, wheezing, and chest pain. Conversely, peritoneal mesothelioma is characterized by abdominal symptoms like swelling, distension, and pain.
Pericardial mesothelioma may present unique symptoms, such as irregular heart palpitations and murmurs. For those dealing with testicular mesothelioma, noticeable symptoms include testicular swelling and pain.
Additionally, common symptoms shared across mesothelioma types include:
- Fatigue,
- Fever
- Excessive sweating
- Fluid accumulation
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle weakness
- Unexplained pain
- Swelling
- Unintended weight loss
It’s worth noting that fatigue, weight loss, and fever can be seen in various other medical conditions and cancers. Check with a qualified medical practitioner before jumping to conclusions.
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Here are the treatment options for Mesothelioma:
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgical interventions
- Tumor Treating Fields
Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma at an early stage generally benefit most from multimodal therapy, which combines surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Treatment options are contingent on the cancer’s specific location. Notably, the sarcomatoid cell type may restrict treatment choices, whereas the epithelial cell type often exhibits favorable responses to various treatment modalities.
Conclusion
It’s also important to remember that although treatment options vary for mesothelioma, patients have rights and opportunities to pursue justice through financial compensation. If you’ve been recently diagnosed with mesothelioma or think you may have been exposed to asbestos at some point in your life, an experienced lawyer can help evaluate your case and discuss the legal options available.
It is understandable that being diagnosed with mesothelioma can be incredibly overwhelming, but know that there is hope after such news. Get in touch with a qualified medical practitioner to receive guidance on the next steps.
It is also essential to bring the party responsible for the asbestos exposure to justice. Book a consultation with a qualified mesothelioma attorney today to get legal help in seeking compensation.
