Warning Signs of Mesothelioma

March 6, 2019

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the heart, lungs, or abdomen. It is an aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure and it normally takes decades to develop. Research shows that mesothelioma is more likely to develop in men than in women, and rarely affects people under 45 years of age. It is a leading cause of occupational cancer in the United States. If you have been diagnosed with asbestos-related mesothelioma due to your job, you are eligible for compensation.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is not just one thing, it is a bundle of silicate minerals that have the same fibrous nature. Asbestos fibers are highly toxic and cannot be seen or smelled, which makes it complicated for an individual to know that they are being exposed to it. Asbestos is also resistant to heat, electricity, and chemicals. Once asbestos enters your body, it does not leave and causes continuous cellular damage.

Unlike other forms of cancer, mesothelioma is resistant to chemotherapy. It is one of the most challenging forms of cancer to treat. Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed when it is already in its advanced stages because it tends not to produce any identifiable symptoms in its early stages.

Warning Signs of Mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma are two types of mesothelioma and present different symptoms.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma occurs in the lungs and the symptoms include:

• A dry cough
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Fluid around the lungs
• Back pain

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the abdomen and the symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fluid in the abdomen
• Diarrhea or other changes in bowel habits

Who is at Risk for Developing Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is more likely to affect those exposed to an extremely high concentration of it, or those exposed to it daily. Factory workers, construction workers, and plumbers are at risk for developing the disease. Family members of these workers are also at risk of exposure because asbestos fibers can be carried on clothing.

It is very important to be aware of the warning signs of mesothelioma, especially if you have been exposed to asbestos at any point in your life. The earlier you recognize strange symptoms, the earlier you can get to your doctor. As with any type of cancer, the earlier you begin treatment, the better your chances are of survival.

Delaware Mesothelioma Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Handle Mesothelioma Cases

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you have options. Contact a Delaware mesothelioma lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Our experienced lawyers will fight hard to obtain the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact us online or by phone at 302-656-5445. Our offices are in Georgetown and Wilmington, Delaware, where we represent clients throughout the state, including Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.