Five Things You Should Do If Diagnosed With Mesothelioma
The diagnosis of mesothelioma is one of the most devastating medical information that a patient can receive. Mesothelioma cancer develops in the lining of large internal organs, spreads throughout the body and often kills the patient. While a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be overwhelming, the patient can do several things to better deal with this new reality.
1. Get a detailed diagnosis and prognosis from your doctor
Once the initial trauma is caused by receiving a diagnosis of attenuated mesothelioma, discuss your diagnosis and prognosis with your doctor. It will explain what type of mesothelioma you have, which organs are affected and how far the cancer has spread. The doctor will also help you understand the evolution of cancer and the effects of treatments on your body. Finally, the doctor can show you statistics about patients with similar cancer to help you understand what might happen in the future.
2. Create an effective pain management plan
Mesothelioma cancer can sometimes cause significant pain and discomfort. Pleural mesothelioma, the most common type of mesothelioma, often causes fluid retention in the lungs. It could be very uncomfortable. If the tumors enlarge and press against the nerves, the patient may experience pain in different parts of the body. However, current advanced pain treatments can assure you that you will be comfortable at all times. Discuss your pain management plan with your doctor and be sure to tell your doctor about any changes in your perception of pain or the effectiveness of your medications.
3. Talk to a psychologist, chaplain or pastor
While advanced therapies for mesothelioma are under development, the sad truth is that currently, the prognosis of mesothelioma is difficult to receive for most patients. Most patients die within one year of diagnosis. This reality often causes depression, anxiety, anger, and grief for mesothelioma patients and their family members. Talk about your emotional pain to an experienced psychologist, chaplain or chaplain. These mental and spiritual health professionals can help you better cope with your diagnosis and live your life as fully as possible.
4. Consult a lawyer specialized in personal injury
Mesothelioma has been associated with asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma often does not develop until decades have elapsed since exposure to asbestos. You may have been exposed to asbestos 40, 50 and even 60 years ago at home while working in a shipyard or construction site, or on a warship. People and organizations responsible for exposing you to asbestos can be held legally responsible for your suffering. Talk to a personal injury lawyer to find out if compensation could be awarded in your case.
5. Create an estate plan
Even if you do not own real estate or valuable personal property, it is a good idea to create an estate plan. In fact, such a plan should be maintained by each person to avoid unnecessary taxes and legal difficulties in case of unforeseen events.
A diagnosis of mesothelioma is one of the most traumatic experiences that a person can experience during his life. Often a person will contract mesothelioma as a result of working with hazardous materials such as asbestos. As such, you may deserve a settlement from a careless company or employer. For more information about your rights, it is essential to contact a personal injury lawyer in your area as soon as possible.