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Getting to Know the Disease
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the pleura and the peritoneum which are, in layman’s terms, the lining of the lungs and the abdominal cavity. A rare variation of this disease is pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the linings of the heart.
Mesothelioma is caused by the frequent exposure to asbestos, which is a flexible mineral with threadlike filaments, used in fireproof gloves, ironing board covers, stove pads and automobile brake shoes. It can even help fireproof buildings when mixed with cement. If you think workers with substantial exposure to the mineral are the only ones in danger, think again. The families of these workers are in as much danger as they might get in contact with the asbestos brought home by the worker on their clothing, skin and hair. People living near asbestos manufacturing facilities are also on the list!
People affected with this disease are usually diagnosed at a late stage, usually at the age of 60 – 70. This is because the development period of the symptoms takes 20 – 50 years after exposure.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include nausea and vomiting; shortness of breath, cough and chest pains brought about by pleural effusion or simply pus fluid in the lungs.
Peritoneum mesothelioma patients experience loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pains due to ascites (fluid in the abdominal cavity), bowel difficulties, blood clotting abnormalities, fatigue, anemia and fever.
People diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma complain of persistent coughing, hoarseness, shortness of breath, chest wall pain, palpitations, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Mesothelioma, in other cases, may also spread throughout the body. This induces swelling of the face and the neck, and painful swallowing.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other less serious conditions.
In severe cases, patients may develop many tumor masses. The person may develop a pneumothorax, or collapse of the lung. The cancer may also spread and affect other parts of the body.
Asbestos Litigation
If you are affected with a devastating disease like mesothelioma or if a loved one has passed away as a result, you have a legal right to demand answers about why you weren’t informed and warned against the dangers of asbestos, and you have a right to claim compensation from the manufacturing companies that made the asbestos products. These companies are liable and should cover your medical bills and provide financial security for families left behind by mesothelioma victims. There are lawyers who specialize in these kinds of cases, known as mesothelioma lawyers or asbestos lawyers who can help you seek reparation for your suffering.
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