Mesothelioma is a cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos particles in the air.
Mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor of the mesothelium, which is the protective lining of the abdominal organs, the heart and the lungs.
The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mestothelioma. It strikes the pleural membrane between the chest cavity and the lungs.
Family members of laborers who are exposed to asbestos can contact mesothelioma if exposed to a worker’s clothing.
Workers most at risk are those who come into contact with asbestos, such as ship fitters, asbestos fabrication plants workers, insulation installers and home renovators.
Mesothelioma spreads rapidly through the mesothelial cells to other organs in the body.
Smokers are more at risk of contacting pleural mesothelioma.
Constant chest pain is usually the first symptom of mesothelioma. Others include persistent cough, fever, and swelling of the arms and face.
After the initial diagnosis patients usually succumb to the disease within two years. This depends on the overall health of the individual and the stage the cancer is in when it is diagnosed. Other factors are also involved, but these are the most predominant.
Mesothelioma victims can put in a claim against both the asbestos manufacturer and workman’s compensation.
Some law firms specialize in mesothelioma litigation.
Questions to Ask your Doctor
Which type of mesothelioma have you diagnosed?
Has the mesothelioma spread outside of the original site?
What stage is the cancer in and how will it affect me?
Do I have treatments options; if so, what are they?
What type of treatment do you recommend and for why have you chosen it?
What is my prognosis based on what you have learned at this point in time?
What side effects and risks can I expect during and after treatment?
Will the mesothelioma be put into remission and if so how long before it could reoccur?