What is Mesothelioma? And How Can a Lawyer Help?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer. This disease is usually caused by exposure to asbestos or types of minerals that can cause cancer when inhaled. When you get mesothelioma, the effected cells start creating a protective lining that grows on top of the body’s internal organs. This usually occurs on the lungs but can also happen to the heart and other vital organs.

The most common exposure to asbestos is in the workplace. The majority of people who develop mesothelioma worked in jobs where they were constantly around these particles. Some sources say that even washing the clothes of someone who worked in an asbestos filled environment can be enough to get mesothelioma yourself. Though there is no link between smoking and mesothelioma, smoking increases your chances of developing other asbestos caused cancers.

Some of the common symptoms of mesothelioma are shortness of breath, chest pain, and even weight loss. To be properly diagnosed, you need to get an x-ray and CT scan. If these show that you have mesothelioma, then they are confirmed with a biopsy that is sent in to a lab.

Treatment options are limited for people who develop mesothelioma. Chemotherapy is a prevalent option, but like always it carries risks. Radiation therapy is also used to similar results. Another treatment option for people with mesothelioma is surgery. All together, the general prognosis for an individual with mesothelioma is low.

Due to the workplace exposure to mesothelioma, it is possible to receive large settlements by suing the employer. This has caused an explosion of mesothelioma lawyers since the first settlement in 1929. There are many mesothelioma lawyers out there. Many are shady and charge outrageous fees. Our articles and tips will help you find the right mesothelioma lawyer for you and your situation.