Mesothelioma Lawyer
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testicles. It is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Recognizing the early symptoms of mesothelioma is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Individuals can look out for several key symptoms of mesothelioma so that they can know when to seek immediate medical attention and receive the urgent treatment that they need.
Persistent and Unexplained Chest Pain
Persistent chest pain is one of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma. This pain may be dull, sharp, or aching in nature and can worsen with deep breathing or coughing. As the tumor grows, it puts pressure on the chest wall, leading to discomfort and pain. If you experience persistent chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath or coughing, it’s essential to consult a medical professional promptly.
Chronic Cough and Shortness of Breath
Coughs that worsen and do not go away over time is another common symptom of the illness. This cough may be accompanied by shortness of breath, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. As pleural mesothelioma progresses, the tumor restricts the expansion of the lungs, causing breathing difficulties. If you find yourself constantly coughing or experiencing breathlessness, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.
Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss is another common symptom, as a mesothelioma lawyer like one from Brown Kiely, LLP frequently sees in cases. However, in the case of mesothelioma, these symptoms can be significant indicators of the disease. As the cancer progresses, it affects the body’s metabolism, causing unintentional weight loss. Fatigue is also a common symptom, resulting from the body’s immune response to the growing tumor and the increased energy demands required to fight the disease. If you notice a significant and unexplained weight loss accompanied by persistent fatigue, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.
Abdominal Swelling and Digestive Issues
Peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen, presents symptoms that are different from pleural mesothelioma. Swelling in the abdomen is also a common symptom that many patients report. As the tumor grows, it puts pressure on the organs in the abdomen, leading to digestive issues such as nausea, loss of appetite, and changes in bowel habits. If you experience unexplained abdominal swelling, digestive disturbances, or persistent abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical advice to determine the cause.
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that requires early detection for optimal treatment outcomes. By being aware of the common symptoms, such as persistent and unexplained chest pain, chronic cough and shortness of breath, unexplained weight loss and fatigue, and abdominal swelling with digestive issues, you can take action promptly. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, do not delay seeking medical attention. If you would like to request a consultation regarding your diagnosis, contact a lawyer as soon as possible so that you can understand your full legal options.