What This Page Covers:
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the protective lining of the body’s internal organs, known as the mesothelium. Like all types of cancer, mesothelioma is not contagious. This devastating disease is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries until its dangers were discovered. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, consider seeking the help of a qualified and experienced legal team, such as The Williams Law Firm, P.C. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t face mesothelioma alone – let us fight for you.
The main cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. When materials containing asbestos are disturbed, tiny fibers can be released into the air. If inhaled, these fibers can settle in the lungs and remain there for a long time. Over decades, these fibers can cause inflammation and damage to lung tissue, leading to mesothelioma. This exposure often happens in workplaces related to construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing of products containing asbestos.
It’s not just workers who are at risk – their families might also be exposed to asbestos fibers that are brought home on clothing. In rare cases, mesothelioma can develop after exposure to high doses of radiation or from inhaling other fibrous minerals. However, it’s important to note asbestos exposure is by far the most common cause.
Identifying mesothelioma early can be challenging due to its subtle and common symptoms that resemble those of other conditions. However, recognizing the signs can lead to a quicker diagnosis, which is crucial for treatment. Here’s what you might experience if you have mesothelioma:
Having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have mesothelioma. However, if you’ve been exposed to asbestos in the past and you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor for a thorough evaluation.
When it comes to treating mesothelioma, the approach largely depends on the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. Common treatments include surgery to remove the cancerous area, chemotherapy to kill cancer cells, and radiation therapy to target and destroy cancer cells. Some patients may also benefit from newer treatments like immunotherapy, which boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight the cancer.
In certain cases, doctors may suggest palliative treatments that focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life rather than trying to cure the disease. This could include procedures to drain fluid that’s built up and causing discomfort or pain. It’s vital for anyone diagnosed with mesothelioma to have a thorough discussion with their healthcare team to understand the benefits and risks of each treatment option. Every case is unique, so personalizing the treatment plan to the individual’s specific situation is key to managing this challenging disease.
Understanding the distinct types of mesothelioma is crucial for patients and families navigating this diagnosis, as each variety affects different areas of the body and may require specialized treatment approaches.
Mesothelioma is categorized primarily by the location where cancer develops in the mesothelium, the protective lining that covers many internal organs. Each type presents with distinct characteristics, progression patterns, and treatment approaches.
Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and represents approximately 75 to 80% of all cases. This most common form typically manifests with symptoms including chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. As the disease progresses, fluid often accumulates between the pleural layers, further compromising lung function and causing increased respiratory distress.
Peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the abdominal lining, or the peritoneum. Patients typically experience the following symptoms:
This type often responds better to treatment than other forms, particularly with specialized approaches like heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).
Pericardial mesothelioma affects the heart lining, or pericardium, and is extremely rare. Symptoms include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, heart murmurs, and shortness of breath. The proximity to the heart makes this form particularly challenging to treat.
Testicular mesothelioma develops in the lining of the testicles and is the rarest form of this type of cancer. Patients typically notice painless testicular lumps or swelling as the primary symptom.
Asbestos exposure remains the primary cause of mesothelioma. This naturally occurring mineral, once prized for its heat resistance and durability, releases microscopic fibers that can be inhaled or ingested when disturbed. These fibers penetrate the mesothelial lining of organs, where they trigger inflammation and cellular damage that may eventually lead to cancerous mutations decades after initial exposure.
Occupational exposure represents the most significant risk factor, with certain professions facing substantially higher risks. These professions include the following:
Family members of these workers also face elevated risks through secondary exposure from asbestos fibers brought home on work clothes, hair, and skin. Age significantly influences risk, with most diagnoses occurring in patients over 65, reflecting the long latency period between exposure and disease development. Men develop mesothelioma at approximately four times the rate of women, primarily due to historical occupational patterns rather than biological susceptibility differences. The presence of existing respiratory conditions may compound risks, as compromised lung function can reduce the body’s ability to clear inhaled fibers. Smoking, while not directly causing mesothelioma, significantly increases the risk of lung cancer when combined with asbestos exposure and may complicate treatment outcomes.
If you have suffered mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure, you have the right to pursue justice by filing a claim. When you file an asbestos exposure claim, you may be eligible to recover damages to help cover the losses you and your family may have incurred due to your disease and treatments.
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos at work and developed mesothelioma, reaching out to a mesothelioma lawyer is a crucial step. We can guide you through the complex legal landscape, helping you understand your rights and the process for filing a claim. Our experience allows us to effectively advocate for you, aiming to secure the compensation you deserve for your suffering and medical expenses.
Together, we’ll gather the necessary evidence of your asbestos exposure and its link to your mesothelioma diagnosis. We’ll work tirelessly on your behalf, handling all legal aspects so you can focus on your health and well-being. Our goal is to make the compensation process as straightforward and stress-free as possible for you.
If you’re facing a diagnosis of work-related mesothelioma, you’re not alone. The Williams Law Firm, P.C., stands by your side, boasting an unbeaten track record in mesothelioma cases. Our dedication and expertise mean we’re uniquely positioned to help you navigate through this challenging time.
Reach out to us by calling (855) 575-6376 or using our contact form. Let us take on the legal burden, so you can concentrate on what’s most important – your health and family.
Get a copy of our FREE mesothelioma e-book by attorney Joseph Williams
