Mesothelioma Cancer Symptoms Guide

Symptoms and warning signs of malignant mesothelioma are often much more difficult to notice because in most cases, they don’t begin to show until several decades after asbestos exposure. When symptoms do finally appear, they are often extremely mild in the beginning and most people haven’t a clue that these are actually warning signs of a dire medical issue.

When early symptoms do develop, people will often mistake the warning signs for a cold, flu, or other less severe and common illnesses. It’s imperative though, to always listen to your body. If you’ve ever worked around asbestos or used products containing asbestos, do not ignore even the slightest hint of a cold. You should seek medical assistance immediately.

If you or a loved have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Fill out our form to get a free Financial Compensation Packet. You’ll learn about the top mesothelioma lawyers in your area, how to get paid in 90 days, how to file a claim for the asbestos trust funds, and more.

Beware: Mesothelioma Can Mimic the Common Cold

The majority of victims do not seek help even after the first symptoms of mesothelioma arrive because the ailments, as previously stated, closely mimic common respiratory illnesses. To complicate matters even worse, pleural mesothelioma victims are prone to pneumonia. Yet, instead of connecting the pneumonia to mesothelioma, the victim is often times treated for the pneumonia only.

 In addition to cold and/or flu-like symptoms, some of the earliest indications and warning signs of mesothelioma cancer are lethargy, coughing, body aches, and shortness of breath. As previously mentioned, these symptoms are so similar to colds and flus that many victims still continue to ignore the early warning signs. Keep in mind that these symptoms apply to all forms of mesothelioma, but additional symptoms and warning signs may develop as well, depending upon the type of mesothelioma you have.

Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

Since lung mesothelioma affects the chest area and respiratory system, many of the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma will be in that area of the body. Hacking, dry coughs, wheezing, chest pain, the inability to fully expand the chest, and dyspnea are some of the most common warning signs and evidence of pleural mesothelioma. In addition, close to 60% of mesothelioma victims have complained of back pain, usually in the lower area of the back. Sometimes the pain will spread from the chest into the shoulder areas.

Pleural plaques are another common sign of pleural mesothelioma, but usually will go undetected by the victim. Imaging machines almost always need to be used to see pleural plaques. Pleural plaques appear in clusters scattered throughout the victim’s chest area, ranging in sizes up to 6 cm and more.

In severe cases of pleural mesothelioma, victims may experience:

• Tumor masses
• A lung collapsing
• Coughing up blood
• Blood clots in the veins
• Blood clots in the lung’s arteries (pulmonary emboli)
• Jaundice
• Ascites
• Extreme swelling in the face and arms
• Dysphagia (difficulty with swallowing)
• Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the cells walls that line the abdomen, also known as the mesothelium. The mesothelium contains two layers of cells that cover and protect the body’s internal organs. When the cells around the abdomen are affected, they become abnormal, multiply, and become cancerous. When asbestos fibers are ingested or inhaled, they can make their way down to the peritoneum.

Most cases of peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by working at a job site that was at one time associated with high amounts of asbestos use. In addition, peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma, affecting under 2 people per million in the United States each year.

Physician will normally suspect peritoneal mesothelioma when patients complain of the most common symptoms (see symptoms below). A series of tests and scans are usually performed before an accurate diagnosis is made.

The only sure way to determine if a victim is suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma is through fluid testing. A needle is used to withdraw fluid via the abdominal area. The fluid is then sent off to diagnostics for tests. If malignant cells are found, further testing will follow, which is necessary in order to confirm the cells are malignant.

• Abdominal Pain and Swelling
• Fluid buildup up in the abdominal area
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Lumps of tissue clumped together in the abdominal area (usually under the skin)
• Unusual weight loss
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty with breathing
• Cachexia (loss of appetite and physical weakness)
• Hernias
• Anemia
• Night sweats
• Changes in bowel movements: bouts of constipation and/or diarrhea
• Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma affects the lining of the heart and is currently the most rare form of mesothelioma. How asbestos fibers reach the lining of the heart is still unknown, but scientists have stated that since the fibers are so small, there is a chance they go into the body’s bloodstream and then make their to the heart lining. In addition, mesothelioma in other areas, such as pleural mesothelioma, can eventually grow to a point where it reaches the pericardial area.

Victims of pericardial mesothelioma most often have a poor prognosis. Physicians will usually look for treatments as a means to reduce pressure and relieve pain, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, instead of as way to remove the cancer. Detailed diagnostic and biopsy testing sessions are usually performed before an accurate diagnosis can be made.

• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Thickening of the pericardium
• Feeling tired and sluggish
• Fever
• Testicular and Ovarian Mesothelioma

If males are suffering from testicular mesothelioma, tumors will be present in the testicles, and females suffering from ovarian mesothelioma will have ovarian tumors and cysts. More research is still needed on these two forms of mesothelioma in order to get a more accurate description of additional symptoms. However, as science continues to progress, more information regarding these types of mesothelioma cancers will become available.

Currently, scientists have a few theories on how victims develop testicular mesothelioma. One theory suggests that cancerous growth from other areas of the body somehow amass to a point in which the testicles are affected. Another theory suggests that nodules on the serosal surface of the testicles eventually develop into mesothelioma. The nodules, typically firm and either yellow or white in color, will thicken over time, which causes abnormal cells to quickly grow and multiply.

Although testicular and ovarian mesothelioma cancer is extremely rare, the life expectancy of victims is extremely grim. On average, victims are often told that life expectancy is less than two years.

Timespan Before Mesothelioma Symptoms Arrive

As aforementioned, it usually takes quite some time before the first symptoms of mesothelioma emerge. Physicians state that most often it takes anywhere from 30 to 50 years after the exposure of asbestos for the first mesothelioma symptoms to appear. This goes for all types of mesothelioma, although symptoms for peritoneal mesothelioma tend to show up slightly sooner, at anywhere from 20 to 30 years. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos or think you’ve been exposed, it’s imperative that you not only inform your doctor, but also have regular health check-ups.

In a study performed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it was determined that the average period before mesothelioma detection is around 32 years. However, since the symptoms are mild at first, most victims don’t get diagnosed until much later, when the disease has progressed and the symptoms have become much worse.

When to See Your Doctor

Most mesothelioma victims wait until they begin having severe symptoms before consulting with a physician. It’s extremely important to make an appointment and have a check-up as soon as possible if you’ve been exposed to asbestos. Letting your doctor know that you’ve been exposed can help you get a diagnosis more quickly and start mesothelioma treatments.

It’s also important to remember that not all victims will experience the same symptoms. While some victims may only exhibit a few of the common symptoms, others may experience the full range of symptoms. Regardless, even the first hint of a cold or respiratory illness should be considered serious by anyone who has been exposed to asbestos.

Where to Get Medical Help

When dealing with an asbestos-related illness, it’s important to seek medical help from doctors and clinics who specialize in these forms of cancers. Mesothelioma is considered a new disease, but several physicians possess in-depth training and research on asbestos-related illnesses. In addition, medical centers backed by National Cancer Institute (NCI) are considered the forefront in dealing with all types of cancers, including malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, and more. It’s recommended that victims of asbestos diseases seek treatment at a NCI-designated medical facility.

To learn more about services and treatment and to find an NCI-designated facility in your area, call the National Cancer Institute to inquire about treatment centers close to you.

Additional Information

Don’t forget to fill out our form to get our free Financial Compensation Packet, filled with information on the leading asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys in your area. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.

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Free Mesothelioma Guide

You can get our FREE Mesothelioma Guide today, just by completing our contact form to the right or by calling our toll-free number, 800-793-4540.

Mesothelioma is a terrible disease, an aggressive and fast type of cancer that is challenging to diagnose and treat. For too many the prognosis is not positive and the experience of living with this illness can be very challenging. What we aim to provide both the people who received the diagnosis, and the people who care about them, is a complete set of resources and information, completely free of charge.

With our FREE Mesothelioma Guide, you get information but also an important sense of doing something to fight this disease. When you first get the diagnosis of mesothelioma, the news is overwhelming. You may not be sure where to turn or what to do next. You may be told that you have a lot of decisions to make and expensive treatments to undergo and pay for. The next step may be difficult to determine, but one definite and positive thing you can do is get more information. Be empowered by learning more about your disease, your options, and your rights.

Our Mesothelioma Guide, completely free of cost to you, comes with several important components, all of them designed to give you the information and resources you need to make important choices moving forward:

Mesothelioma Resources – A comprehensive collection of information all about mesothelioma that will help you make informed choices.

Our mesothelioma resources guide provides you with all the basic information you need to know about mesothelioma. This includes general information about the disease, treatment options, locations of cancer centers and those that specialize in diagnosing and treating mesothelioma, as well as contact information for these medical experts. You will also find practical information about nutrition and lifestyle for cancer patients and the information you need to contact and reach out to the support groups that will help you get through this difficult time.

The Dangers of Asbestos – Specialized information for U.S. military veterans and their families who may have been exposed to asbestos.

In our mesothelioma guide, we also provide a free book with information about asbestos, the leading cause of mesothelioma. This book is especially important for U.S. veterans, the largest sub-population affected by mesothelioma. Too many of the men and women who served our country were unknowingly exposed to asbestos, particularly on Naval ships. This book offers information on asbestos use in the military, how it causes mesothelioma, and resources and legal rights for veterans.

Financial Compensation Packet – Your go-to guide for understanding your legal rights and getting compensated for your diagnosis.

Your number one concern after a diagnosis of mesothelioma should be getting the best possible medical care. Too often, though, patients are forced to worry about the costs of that care. Without excellent insurance, the cost of treating cancer can be astronomical. With our financial compensation packet, you will get information on getting get the money you need to get the care you need.

We provide you with information on how to actually get paid in 90 days, how to find a leading mesothelioma lawyer, and how to file for compensation through asbestos trust funds. You have legal rights when it comes to mesothelioma, and you may be eligible for monetary compensation. Let us help you figure out how to get it.

All of this information is crucial for taking your next steps on your mesothelioma journey, and it can be yours at absolutely no cost. Our experts have collected all the information and the resources for guiding you as you seek a correct diagnosis, appropriate treatment, financial support, and legal support. It is all gathered together in one concise set of documents, our FREE Mesothelioma Guide. Going forward, you need information and support, and we can provide it.

To get our FREE Mesothelioma Guide, just complete the contact form to the right so we can send it directly to you, or call us at 800-793-4540 and we will make sure the guide is on its way immediately to your mailbox.

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Mesothelioma Law Firm

Mesothelioma, a life-threatening type of cancer that can affect the lungs, abdomen, and several other major organs, has been linked to prolonged exposure to asbestos. Many people who were victims of exposure have sought the advice of a mesothelioma law firm to get justice and help them cover the overwhelming expenses associated with this disease.

Most victims were exposed to asbestos at work. In many cases, the manufacturers of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials knew of the hidden dangers and risks of asbestos, yet failed to inform the public. Because of this, workers who developed health issues from asbestos exposure may be eligible for financial compensation to cover expenses such as lost wages, medical bills, emotional suffering, physical pain, and more.

If you suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, set up for those who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on leading mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more.

What Does a Mesothelioma Law Firm Do?

Law firms specializing in mesothelioma focus primarily on victims of this type of cancer as well as those with other asbestos-related diseases. For the best chance of a positive outcome for an asbestos case, it is important to avoid settling for a law firm that takes on all kinds of personal injury cases. You need a legal team that specializes in mesothelioma cases, as these types of lawsuits are complicated and require an in-depth understanding of asbestos exposure and diseases.

Attorneys at asbestos law firms have a deep knowledge of federal and state laws regarding asbestos use and how it has been used in a range of industries where workers were exposed. They also have sharp investigative skills and are able to dig deep to uncover when and where companies exposed workers to asbestos. You need the guidance and advice of this kind of law firm to have the best chance of a successful claim or lawsuit.

How Can an Asbestos Law Firm Help Me?

The legal process can be confusing for lay people, especially victims of asbestos exposure who are battling illness. A good law firm can guide you and help you better understand the process, your options, and the likely outcomes. Asbestos lawyers can give you answers to important questions:

Can We Prove there was Asbestos at My Workplace? If you can provide the law firm with your work history, they should be able to investigate and determine how asbestos was used at your workplace. In some cases, they may already have the information available.

Do I Have a Valid Asbestos Claim? Asbestos law firms know what you need to have a true asbestos claim. They can determine how strong your case is and estimate the chances that you’ll win. Most attorneys make sure they’re confident in your case before taking it on.

What is My Case Worth? If the firm decides you have an asbestos case, they will then be able to come up with an estimated figure for how much your case is worth. This estimation is based on past expenses, daily expenses, medical bills, lost wages, emotional trauma, physical suffering, future expenses, and much more. Keep in mind, however, that there is no set formula as to how much your award amount may be.

Who is Responsible for My Illness? It can be difficult for the average person to determine who exactly is responsible for exposing victims to asbestos. For example, companies can move, go out of business, hide, suppress relevant information, and change ownerships. Part of the law firm’s job is to research, seek out, and determine the entity or responsible parties that are liable for your exposure to asbestos.

What Should I Look for When Hiring an Asbestos Law Firm?
Simply choosing a law firm that claims to specialize in asbestos cases is not enough. Some firms may be a better fit for you than others, and some may advertise taking on asbestos cases while in reality they take on all kinds of cases. In addition to choosing lawyers you feel comfortable with, consider these factors:

The law firm should be able to prove it has experience in dealing with mesothelioma cases.
The law firm should be extremely knowledgeable in asbestos laws and prior cases.
The law firm should not only understand asbestos laws, but should also have extensive knowledge of medical problems associated with asbestos diseases.

Look for a law firm that focuses solely on asbestos-related cases.
Look for law firms with a stellar reputation in handling asbestos cases.
The law firm should always keep you updated on what’s going on in your case.
A reputable firm will give you an initial consultation at no charge before deciding on a firm.
Never go with a law firm that promises you a certain outcome. A good firm will explain your chances, but will never guarantee a win.

How to Work with an Asbestos Law Firm

There are things you can do to make sure the legal process goes as smoothly as possible and that your legal team has what they need to make your case. First, make all of your medical documents available to your lawyers. Next, be prepared to provide the law firm with your work history and information including the full company names, addresses, phone numbers, your job roles, and how long and when you worked at each job.

Finally, start keeping track of all expenses used pertaining to your disease. For example, always keep a copy of medical bills, hospital visits, mileage used to get to appointments, medical supplies, and any other expense you paid out due to your illness.

How Asbestos Law Firms Charge for Services
An experienced and caring law firm understands that victims of asbestos-related diseases are already financially burdened and are unable to afford up-front fees for legal representation. As a result, many firms work on what’s known as a contingency fee basis, meaning that they only get paid when you get paid.

Law firms usually charge based on a percentage taken out of your total settlement or verdict amount, and again, the percentage amount will vary depending upon the firm. Make sure you understand how the fees and percentages work with the firm beforehand so that there will be no confusion later on.

If a law firm doesn’t provide a contingency fee option for payment, there is a good chance that they don’t have the financial resources to successfully research and prove your case. Select a firm that has the financial capability to take on your case on a contingency fee basis.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to go to court?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions, which is understandable, as most people who are dealing with an asbestos-related illness generally do not want to spend time in a court room. Most mesothelioma lawsuits are settled out of court, so going to trial is unusual.

In some instances, however, if the defense doesn’t agree on a settlement, or if you don’t agree on a settlement, you may have to go to trial, which requires going to court. An experienced law firm will help you through every step of the way, and if you are too ill to attend, arrangements can be made to record your testimony beforehand.

What if I don’t know which company exposed me to asbestos?
Part of an asbestos law firm’s job is to uncover the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure. The culpable parties are typically manufacturers who supplied asbestos to job sites, which could be one or multiple companies.

I have workers’ compensation benefits. Can a law firm still help me even if I have other compensation benefits?
Other compensation benefits, such as workers’ compensation or VA benefits, do not disqualify you from seeking compensation from the companies who exposed you to asbestos. An asbestos law firm can help you file a lawsuit against the responsible parties.

Where Can I Get Help Finding an Experienced Asbestos Law Firm?
Simply fill out our form to get your free Financial Compensation Packet, with information on top asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers in your area. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.

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