Mesothelioma by definition is cancer of the mesothelium, or the area of the internal body that protects our vital organs. When the cells that line the area are no longer normal, mesothelioma may likely be the issue. Different types of mesothelioma exist, and may contribute a varying number of symptoms. The three types include pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial.
Pleural mesothelioma is identified as cancer that affects the lung cavity and lungs. Fluid build up may cause several chronic symptoms including breathing difficulty, coughing, and producing blood when coughing. Peritoneal mesothelioma is considered more rare than pleural mesothelioma and is identified as a cancer that affects the abdomen and stomach. It can lead to severe pain, obstruction of the bowel, blood clots, nausea, loss of appetite, and other serious issues. Tumors in the abdominal region may also spread throughout the body. Pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer of the heart and chest cavity. Symptoms of this include breathing problems, heart palpitations, chest pain, and other issues.
Because the symptoms of each of these types of mesothelioma are also associated with a number of other conditions or diseases, it is often extremely difficult to diagnose mesothelioma. A paucity of information about mesothelioma for the medical field as well as the general public is a contributing factor as well. Discussing one’s past history and possible asbestos exposure with their physician may be beneficial in obtaining a proper diagnosis early on.
After obtaining an accurate diagnosis, one may find it beneficial to seek legal assistance for a mesothelioma claim. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to the toxic mineral asbestos, and is often preventable. In most cases, the cause of one developing this kind of terminal condition can be attributed to the negligence or wrongful acts of someone else, whether it is an employer, manufacturer, or other entity. An asbestos attorney can help facilitate getting the legal compensation a person who suffers from mesothelioma may be entitled to under the law.