The mesothelioma attorneys at The Law Offices of Peter Angelos describe the process of diagnosing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive and rare form of cancer that has been linked to asbestos exposure—even brief exposures. The disease affects the lining of the lungs, the abdomen or heart, and eventually hinders those organs’ ability to perform essential functions. The vast majority of mesothelioma cases can be linked to asbestos exposure.
Typically, the process of diagnosing mesothelioma will begin after an in individual has reported symptoms to their doctor. Diagnosing this disease, however, can be complex, as there are a number of different tools that physicians use to assess the symptoms of the disease. Further, the symptoms of mesothelioma may not become apparent until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure has occurred, and can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma a person has. Common symptoms of mesothelioma include, but are not limited to:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or anemia
- Wheezing, hoarseness, or cough
- Weight loss
- Problems with bowel function
- Blood clotting abnormalities
- Abdominal pain and swelling
After reporting these symptoms to a doctor, a patient may be referred to a specialist for further examination and texts. Often a specialist will recommend that the patient undergo a series of CT scans or X-rays in order to assess whether or not there are signs of the disease. Depending on what a specialist observes while conducting these tests, a patient may need to undergo additional testing.
Depending on the findings that result from the testing, a patient may then be officially diagnosed with mesothelioma. It is important at this point in the process that patients and their families ask any questions that they have regarding the disease, treatment and expectations. Additionally, it may be advisable to obtain a second opinion regarding this diagnosis to ensure that the patient is following the proper and most viable treatment plan for their disease.
For patients diagnosed with mesothelioma, who were exposed to asbestos through the workplace, a home or indirectly through secondary exposure, it is important to contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney. Many of the victims and families whose lives have been affected by asbestos exposure, mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases often do not know whether pursuing legal action is possible or worthwhile. Peter Angelos Law has been Maryland’s leading mesothelioma and asbestos victims law firm for over 50 years, and our attorneys have recovered substantial compensation on behalf of thousands of working men, women, and families affected by this disease.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, or are suffering from mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, contact our mesothelioma and asbestos attorneys.