How much does mesothelioma cost? What are the symptoms? And who should I call? These questions are often asked by victims of asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials until it was banned in the 1970s. Exposure to asbestos causes cancerous tumors to form in the lungs, stomach, liver, and other organs. Mesothelioma is a rare type of lung cancer caused by long-term exposure to asbestos.
Mesotheliomais usually diagnosed after a person has had symptoms for several years. The disease is very aggressive and patients typically die within two years of diagnosis. There are no effective treatments for mesothelioma. Most people who develop the disease live less than five years after diagnosis.
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid being exposed to asbestos. If you were exposed to asbestos at work or home, contact an attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation if your employer failed to protect you from asbestos exposure.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Asbestos Disease Compensation Fund (ADCF). This fund provides payments to individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelin-related cancers and meet certain requirements.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is rare cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. The disease affects the mesothelial cells lining the body’s internal organs such as the lungs, heart, stomach, or intestines.
Asbestos was once widely used in construction materials because of its durability and fireproof properties. Unfortunately, the carcinogenic nature of asbestos has come to light. In fact, it’s estimated that over 100,000 deaths occur each year due to mesothelioma.
Asbestos is no longer manufactured in the U.S., but it’s still present in some older buildings. If you live near a building built before 1980, you should check whether it contains asbestos. If you suspect you might have been exposed to asbestos, contact a doctor immediately.
How Does Mesothelioma Work?
Mesothelial cells line the inner surface of our bodies. They help keep us healthy by secreting fluids into our tissues. When these cells become damaged by asbestos fibers, they can release abnormal proteins into the bloodstream. These proteins cause inflammation throughout the body which leads to cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma Cancer?
There are many different types of mesothelioma cancer, so symptoms vary depending on the part of the body affected. Some common signs include:
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Shortness of breath
• Weight loss
• Persistent cough
• Fatigue
• Chest pains
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Hoarseness
• Swelling of hands or feet
• Skin changes
• Loss of appetite
In addition to those listed above, there are also some more unusual symptoms associated with mesotheliomas including:
• A lump under the skin
• Blood clots in the legs
• Painful bowel movements
• Sores or ulcers inside the mouth
• Changes in vision
• Lumps in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing
• Problems breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Bleeding gums
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Fainting spells
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Memory problems
• Depression
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Tremors
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Sleep disorders
• Blurred vision
• Muscle twitching
• Joint aches
• Feeling faint
• Hair loss
• Itching
• Trouble swallowing
• Breathing difficulties
• Poor concentration
• Frequent urination
• Stomach cramps
• Constipation
• Vaginal discharge
• Vomiting
• Urinary incontinence
The symptoms of mesotheliomas often mimic other conditions, so it’s important to see a physician right away if you think you may have this type of cancer.
How Can I Prevent Mesothelioma From Happening Again?
Unfortunately, there’s not much we can do to prevent mesothelioma from happening again. However, there are steps we can take to reduce the risk of getting this deadly disease. For example, you can avoid being around people who work with asbestos. You can also get regular medical screenings for any potential health issues. If you believe you have mesothelioma, call your doctor as soon as possible. He or she will be able to determine the best course of treatment for you.