Mesothelioma symptoms often develop decades after asbestos exposure, making early detection challenging. Common signs include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. Because these symptoms can mimic less serious conditions, proper medical evaluation is crucial.
At Williams Law Firm, P.C., founding partner Joseph P. Williams has spent over 30 years fighting for asbestos exposure victims, ensuring they receive the compensation and justice they deserve. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process while you focus on your health.
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that develops in the thin protective tissue that lines certain internal organs and body cavities, known as the mesothelium. This tissue produces fluid that helps protect organs by reducing friction between them and surrounding tissues. Mesothelioma can occur in different parts of the body, including the lining of the lungs (called pleural mesothelioma), the abdomen (known as peritoneal mesothelioma), the heart (referred to as pericardial mesothelioma), and the testicles (testicular mesothelioma). The primary cause of mesothelioma is occupational exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are highly resistant to heat and corrosion.
Mesothelioma is a particularly devastating form of cancer, in part because its symptoms are typically not evident for 20 years or more after the asbestos exposure that caused it occurred.
Experiencing mesothelioma symptoms can be alarming and requires immediate medical attention to explore diagnosis and treatment options. Mesothelioma’s long latency period makes it difficult to diagnose in its early stages, and many of its signs and symptoms vary based on where the cancer develops. Diagnosis is often further complicated by the fact that mesothelioma shares symptoms with other health concerns as wide-ranging as influenza, pneumonia and lung cancer.
New York mesothelioma lawyer Joseph P. Williams and the team at The Williams Law Firm are experienced advocates for asbestos exposure victims and their families. We have an extensive record of success recovering the financial compensation necessary to cope with medical costs and other expenses.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with mesothelioma, please call us today at (855) 575-6376 or contact us online to arrange your free consultation. Our compassionate legal team is dedicated to helping asbestos exposure victims from New York, New Jersey and nationwide.
Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose. Although an average of 3,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, a doctor who does not specialize in mesothelioma or asbestos exposure may not recognize this illness for what it is until it has progressed to its later stages. At this point, it may be too late for the patient to receive certain types of treatments, such as surgery. Learning the most common symptoms of mesothelioma may enable you to see a doctor early.
These symptoms include:
Recognizing the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma, such as chest pain and shortness of breath, is crucial for early detection and appropriate referrals to specialists.
Symptoms will vary based on the type and location of the cancer. Early detection and diagnosis are critical to treating mesothelioma. Although researchers have not yet found a cure for this disease, early intervention and multimodal treatment options can extend a patient’s lifespan and improve quality of life. If you notice any possible signs of mesothelioma in yourself or someone you love, visit a doctor and explain why you believe you may have this illness, such as known asbestos exposure at some point in your lifetime.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive type of cancer that can affect patients in different ways. However, the life expectancy of a patient who is diagnosed with mesothelioma is generally better with early detection. If you wait too long to see a doctor, you may receive a worse prognosis and may not be eligible for certain types of treatments. Since early detection is important, look out for the following early signs of this illness:
While these symptoms may not lead to a mesothelioma diagnosis, they could point to another asbestos-related illness, such as asbestosis or lung cancer. You may also have an illness that is not related to asbestos, such as pneumonia. These diagnoses often get confused due to similar symptoms, but can be differentiated using special blood tests and tissue biopsies. Imaging tests, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, are also crucial in identifying abnormal masses or growths related to the disease.
Malignant mesothelioma is a malignant cancer of the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that encases or lines most internal organs. There are four different types of mesothelioma that derive their names based on where the disease occurs:
Some symptoms—such as persistent fatigue and recurring fevers—are prevalent among all types of mesothelioma. However, other signs and symptoms differ based on the specific form of cancer present. Following is a closer look at common mesothelioma symptoms by mesothelioma type.
Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the pleura, the mesothelium that encompasses the lungs. It is the most common form of mesothelioma and accounts for more than 75 percent of all cases.
Pleural mesothelioma symptoms include:
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the peritoneum, membranous tissue in the abdomen that helps maintain organ function. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second-most common form of the disease.
Common symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
Pericardial mesothelioma afflicts the pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart. It is one of the rarest types of mesothelioma and is responsible for only about 1 percent of all mesothelioma cases. It is more common in men than women, and it often goes undiagnosed until it is in an advanced stage.
Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms include:
Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma, accounting for less than 1 percent of mesothelioma cases, and affects the tunica vaginalis, the mesothelium that surrounds the testes.
Indicators of testicular mesothelioma include:
As mesothelioma progresses, its symptoms tend to worsen, significantly impacting the patient’s quality of life. Advanced mesothelioma can manifest through severe chest pain, persistent shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, and significant weight loss. Swelling in the face and legs, abdominal pain, and nausea and vomiting are also common. In some cases, mesothelioma can spread to lymph nodes and other tissues, leading to additional symptoms. Advanced mesothelioma can cause complications such as pleural effusion, where fluid builds up between the lungs and chest wall, making it harder to breathe, bowel obstruction, and difficulty swallowing.
If you are exhibiting the potential symptoms of any form of mesothelioma, tell your primary care physician what you’re feeling. Your doctor will evaluate you, ask questions about your medical history and exposure to asbestos, and run tests, such as blood tests or x-rays. You will then be referred to a mesothelioma specialist for further testing and diagnosis.
An actual mesothelioma diagnosis is made using a tissue biopsy to determine if cancer is present. This may be followed by pulmonary testing to evaluate your lung function. At the time of your diagnosis, your doctor will tell you your type of mesothelioma and the stage of the cancer to determine your prognosis, as well as recommend a mesothelioma treatment plan based on your specific circumstances. Clinical trials may also be discussed as part of your treatment options to provide innovative care.
Every person is different, and the effects of each cancer impact individuals differently as well. Because mesothelioma in all its forms is often unreported or misdiagnosed in its early stages, it’s important to pursue medical attention if you were exposed to asbestos and have nagging symptoms.
If you had occupational exposure or second-hand exposure to asbestos, it’s a good idea to seek a medical screening even if no signs and symptoms are present. While there are no known cures for mesothelioma, there are treatments that can extend lifespan and improve quality of life. The earlier mesothelioma therapies can begin, the better the prognosis. Mesothelioma treatments are crucial due to the aggressive nature of the disease and the limited options available, making early medical consultation essential.
The primary risk factor for developing mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Individuals who have worked with asbestos or been exposed to it in their environment are at a significantly higher risk. Professions such as shipyard workers, construction workers, automotive workers, railroad workers, and mining workers are particularly susceptible due to the nature of their work. Additionally, people who live with someone who works with asbestos or reside in homes containing asbestos materials are also at risk. Other potential risk factors include genetic mutations and certain environmental factors, although these are less common.
Mesothelioma can lead to several serious complications, significantly affecting a patient’s health and well-being. One of the most common complications is pleural effusion, where fluid accumulates between the lungs and chest wall, causing breathing difficulties. Bowel obstruction can occur when mesothelioma spreads to the abdominal lining, leading to blockages in the intestines. Difficulty swallowing may arise if the cancer spreads to the esophagus or throat. Other complications include persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and severe chest pain, all of which can drastically reduce the patient’s quality of life.
Managing mesothelioma symptoms requires a comprehensive approach that includes palliative therapies, traditional cancer treatments, and supportive therapies. Palliative therapies focus on reducing pain and increasing comfort, while traditional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy aim to destroy cancer cells. Supportive therapies, including respiratory, physical, and occupational therapy, help patients cope with the emotional and physical toll of the disease. Complementary therapies like massage, gentle yoga, and meditation can also reduce stress and improve overall well-being. A well-rounded symptom management plan should prioritize overall health by addressing nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care.
From your very first doctor’s appointment for possible mesothelioma to serious surgeries and cutting-edge treatments, the cost of a mesothelioma diagnosis can be high. You may qualify for financial compensation through a mesothelioma lawsuit from the person or party that exposed you to asbestos – even if the exposure occurred decades ago. If the liable party is bankrupt or no longer exists, you may be eligible for compensation through an asbestos trust fund or another source. Searching for sources of financial compensation with help from a lawyer can give your family greater peace of mind about the future during this difficult time.
Mesothelioma attorney Joseph P. Williams and the team at The Williams Law Firm are aggressive advocates for mesothelioma victims and their families.
If you or a family member was diagnosed with mesothelioma, we’re here to help you obtain the financial security you and your loved ones need to move forward. We understand the life-altering effects and overwhelming costs associated with mesothelioma, and our accomplished legal team has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of asbestos exposure victims.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your options. Please call us today at (855) 575-6376 or contact us online. We welcome clients from New York, New Jersey and across the country.
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