Mesothelioma is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos.
Approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with this rare cancer each year in the United States. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked in jobs where asbestos fibers were inhaled or ingested or came in contact with airborne asbestos dust and fibers in other ways.
Although treatment can be given through chemotherapy, radiation, or sometimes surgery, this horrible cancer carries a poor prognosis. Detection and diagnosis are difficult and may not be concluded until 10-15 years or more after exposure. Cases have shown that it has taken this long just for symptoms to arise. Diagnosis can be concluded from several methods, such as physical examination, imaging tests, testing of fluid and tissue samples, oral exploration (bronchoscopy), or surgery.
Mesothelioma Info: Pleural & Peritoneal
For a free legal consultation with a Mesothelioma and Asbestos lawyer serving New Orleans, call 800-537-8185
Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma involves your lungs and chest area. This cancer forms in the lining of the lungs but is different from lung cancer, which originates in the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma accounts for 80-90% of mesothelioma cases.
Common Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma Are:
- Persistent, dry cough
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
- Difficulty sleeping, fever, and night sweats
- Persistent pain in the chest and abdominal regions
- Progressive loss of appetite and weight loss
- Pleural effusions (fluid in the chest cavity)
Early diagnosis and surgical intervention may lengthen life expectancy. Depending on the patient’s age and physical condition, surgery may not be feasible; however, chemotherapy and radiation are options. In the later stages of pleural mesothelioma, pain management, and home care are typical alternatives.
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Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma involves the abdominal cavity, liver, spleen, or bowel. This cancer forms in the lining surrounding the abdomen. Approximately 10% of mesothelioma cases are diagnosed as peritoneal mesothelioma.
Common Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma Are:
- Abdominal pains/weakness
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea/vomiting
- Abdominal swelling
- A condition known as ascites, or fluid that accumulates in the peritoneal space
Pressure from a growing peritoneal mesothelioma tumor may apply pressure to the organs in the abdomen, leading to bowel obstruction and distention. Breathing capacity may be impaired if the tumor presses upward, and pain can increase if it pushes against areas with many nerve fibers.
There Are Many Expenses Related to Illness Caused By Asbestos Exposure Which Include:
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Expenses not covered by insurance
- Travel expenses related to treatments
- Funeral costs
- Pain and suffering
If you or a loved one has experienced complications with mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file a claim for medical costs, emotional distress, and further damages. Fill out our free case evaluation form to contact a mesothelioma lawyer today. An experienced attorney at Morris Bart will assist you in the evaluation process. Initial consultations are FREE. Click here to see more about our office locations throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas. Call us at 1-800-537-8185 today.
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