Who should you consult with if you think you have mesothlioma?

This is an easy answer--a doctor and then a lawyer. The right mesothelioma attorney can be a challenge to find and sort through who has the best qualifications. Here is a guide of good questions that will help you find the best mesothelioma lawyer.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and recurring pain in the chest are very common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. These symptoms may occur from an accumulation of fluid in the pleura. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include abdominal pain and the loss of weight. Still more symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include anemia, blood clotting, bowel obstruction, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, more symptoms like pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face may be present.

These symptoms may or may not be a cause of mesothelioma. They could be symptoms of something completely. It is very important to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a proper diagnosis.

Who is at risk for developing mesothelioma?

Since the late 1800's, asbestos has been mined and used in construction and products. Its use increased greatly during and after World War II. Unfortunately, since the early 1940's, there have been millions who have been exposed to asbestos dust. Initially, the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not very well known. However, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma was later found among shipyard workers, people who work in the Navy, asbestos mines and mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and other construction industries. OSHA has regulations in place today setting limits to the amounts of asbestos exposure a worker can have. It is also required to today that workers in these environments wear protective equipment to minimize their risk of exposure.

The length of time a worker has been exposed to asbestos will add to the risk. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have contracted mesothelioma.

There are even some reports that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing the disease. This risk may be the caused from exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. The chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before they leave the workplace.

A lawyer that specializes in mesothelioma cases is good to consult as you go through this process.

How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. A diagnosis will usually begin with reviewing a patients medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A thorough physical examination may be performed, xrays of the abdomen, lung and chest may also be included. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI may also be useful. The CT scan provides detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer. In an MRI, a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make pictures of areas inside the body. The pictures are viewed on a monitor, can be printed and archived for later review.

A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer) removes a tissue sample that will be examined under a microscope. A biopsy may be performed in a variety of ways. Much depends on where the abnormal area is located.

If the diagnosis proves to be mesothelioma, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of the disease. This will involve more tests in a detailed attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. When the doctor knows the stage of the disease, it will help with proper treatment.

Mesotheloima is a disease that affects the family members and patient in a tragic way. A good mesothelioma lawyer can be a big help in determining if you have a case for receiving damages for costs and suffering. To help you make a good selection here is a guide to follow that will help in selecting a good mesothelioma lawyer selection.

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