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Basics of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that usually begins in the linings of the chest or abdomen, known as the mesothelium. The cancer cells can then spread to other parts of the body. There are a few major types of mesothelioma: pleural mesothelioma, which starts in the chest, is the most common. The other common mesothelioma type is peritoneal mesothelioma, which starts in the abdomen.
More rare mesotheliomas are pericardial (start in the covering around the heart) and mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis (start in the covering layer of the testicles).
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Mesothelioma can be a malignant cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, and symptoms do not appear until years after it first develops. Often, symptoms appear after the disease has already developed to a later, and therefore more dangerous, stage.
General symptoms of mesothelioma include:
- Fever
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Blood clots
- Loss of appetite
Individual types of mesothelioma often have more specific symptoms as well. Of course, any of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. But, if you experience one or more of these symptoms (especially after exposure to asbestos—even years down the line—see a health care provider as soon as you can because early detection is key.
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
- Pain in the side of the chest or lower back
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Swelling of the face and arms
Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling or fluid in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Heart murmur
- Shortness of breath
Asbestos and Mesothelioma Link
The main risk factor for pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of mesothelioma, is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that, due to its resistance to heat and corrosion, has been used over the decades in a large number of products, from insulation to floor tiles and more.
However, asbestos has been classified as a carcinogen, or substance capable of causing cancer. This happens when a person is exposed to asbestos fibers, which are inhaled through the lungs, elevating the risk of developing mesothelioma.
The risk is heightened even more with exposure to more asbestos for a longer period of time according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Asbestos can also cause peritoneal mesothelioma if the asbestos fibers are inhaled, coughed up, and then swallowed.
Various occupations may carry an increased risk of mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, including:
- Shipyard workers
- Military servicemembers
- Construction, demolition, renovation, and repairs workers
- Power and chemical plant employees
- Instillation installers
- Automotive workers (automotive brake and clutch repairs)
- Asbestos products manufacturers
- Other industrial occupations
Treatment Options & Prognosis
Treatment for mesothelioma can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or palliative procedures.
Unfortunately, even with treatment, mesothelioma has a low survival rate. According to the American Cancer Society, the five year relative survival rate of mesothelioma is 30%. This means that people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma are 30% as likely to survive the following five years than people without the cancer.
Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit
Thousands of asbestos mesothelioma lawsuits have already been filed by employees of high risk occupations, including a number of major class action lawsuits. Other consumers have taken action against baby powder manufacturers, alleging that asbestos in these products caused mesothelioma. If you or someone you love has suffered from mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation.
Of course, filing a lawsuit cannot undo the pain and suffering caused by asbestos mesothelioma, nor can it bring a loved one back to life, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
Filing a lawsuit can be overwhelming, so Top Class Actions has laid the groundwork for you by connecting you with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. An attorney can help you determine if you have a claim, navigate the complexities of litigation, and maximize your potential compensation.
For more information, check out The Complete Guide to Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuits & Settlements or go to our Mesothelioma Lawsuit Investigation.
