A mesothelioma diagnosis can be devastating. Beyond the health impact, it often raises immediate concerns about your future, your finances, and your family. While a lawsuit cannot provide a cure, it can ease some of the financial stress caused by your illness. With the help of an experienced mesothelioma attorney, you can pursue fair compensation and hold responsible parties accountable.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that attacks the thin layer of tissue covering many major organs, including the lungs and abdomen. Unfortunately, it is one of the most deadly forms of cancer, and while treatments may help manage symptoms, there is currently no cure.
Common Symptoms
The signs of mesothelioma vary depending on the part of the body affected. They may include:
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Chest pain
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Shortness of breath
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Difficulty breathing
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Abnormal weight loss
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Abdominal pain
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Swelling
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Nausea
Now that we’re familiar with the symptoms, it’s important to also understand the causes that can bring about the disease.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. People who worked directly with asbestos materials or in environments where asbestos was present face the highest risk.
Asbestos fibers can be found in homes, schools, workplaces, and military structures. What makes mesothelioma particularly dangerous is the length of time it takes to develop. It may take 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure before symptoms begin to appear.
How the Disease Develops
The disease typically progresses as follows:
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A person inhales or swallows microscopic asbestos fibers.
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The fibers lodge in organs such as the lungs or stomach.
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The fibers irritate and damage the mesothelial cells, causing inflammation.
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Tumors form in the affected tissue over time.
Because the disease progresses silently for decades, people with past asbestos exposure should remain vigilant about their health.
Can a Mesothelioma Attorney Help You File a Case?
A mesothelioma diagnosis may provide grounds for legal action. An attorney can trace the source of asbestos exposure, identify the negligent party, and bring a claim on your behalf. By filing a lawsuit with a mesothelioma attorney, you not only seek justice but also pursue financial support to help manage the impact of the disease.
Potential Compensation in Mesothelioma Cases
Whether you are pursuing a personal injury claim after a mesothelioma diagnosis or a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one, compensation can address both the financial impact of the disease and the emotional toll it creates. Common forms of recovery include:
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Medical expenses for surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and ongoing treatments
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Future medical costs, including palliative or long-term care needs
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Lost income and reduced earning capacity, if the illness prevents the victim from working
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Loss of financial support, which families may depend on if the victim has passed away
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Pain and suffering, recognizing the physical and emotional challenges of living with mesothelioma
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Loss of companionship and guidance, particularly for surviving spouses and children
Each case is different, and the exact compensation available will depend on the severity of the illness, the financial losses suffered, and the strength of the evidence presented.
What If My Loved One Passed Away From Mesothelioma?
Families who lose a loved one to mesothelioma may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases recognize that asbestos exposure not only harms the victim but also leaves lasting consequences for their surviving family.
Wrongful Death Claims Explained by a Mesothelioma Attorney
In a wrongful death case, the victim’s estate files a lawsuit against the companies or entities responsible for asbestos exposure. The claim is pursued on behalf of surviving family members, which is most commonly the victim’s spouse, children, or, in some cases, other financial dependents.
The purpose of a wrongful death action is twofold: to secure financial stability for the family and to hold negligent parties accountable for the loss of life. While no amount of compensation can replace a loved one, a successful claim can ease the financial and emotional burden left behind.
Taking the Next Step With a Mesothelioma Attorney
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to act quickly. Strict time limits apply, and gathering evidence early can strengthen your case.
Lowcountry Law, LLC is prepared to fight for your right to compensation while providing the support you need throughout the process.
We have offices in Mount Pleasant and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
