Hearing your doctor say,” You have mesothelioma,” can make it seem like time has suddenly stood still. Chances are, your doctor will continue to give you instructions about what you should do next, but it may be difficult to stay focused on his or her words as you cope with the bad news. If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are a few things you need to do.
Talk to Your Oncologist
Your oncologist is your most valuable partner throughout your battle with cancer. Your first consultation with your oncologist will be full of information, including what you should expect in the coming months, as well as information about your available treatment options. If possible and if you were oncologist allows it, record your conversation so that you may revisit it if questions arise or you forget something that was said during your initial visit. Also, be sure to choose an oncologist with experience treating other mesothelioma patients, as mesothelioma is much more aggressive and rare, and it varies from more common types of cancers.
Get a Second Opinion
Because mesothelioma is such a serious diagnosis, it is imported to seek out a second opinion from another doctor before proceeding with treatment. By sending your diagnostic imaging to another oncologist, you’ll have definitive information about your prognosis, cancer stage and the best treatment options for you.
Get a Mesothelioma Attorney
Just as your oncologist is important to your health while you have cancer, your attorney is equally important to your finances. After all, treating mesothelioma is expensive, not only because of the cost of treatment, but also because your family may suffer a loss of income for your time off of work. Furthermore, if you developed cancer as a result of the negligence of an employer or manufacturer – as in many mesothelioma patients do – you deserve compensation for the pain and suffering that you must endure with the disease.
Almost all cases of mesothelioma are caused by exposure to asbestos earlier in life. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that this in fine particles and is easily inhaled or ingested. For many decades, the dangerous and toxic effects of asbestos have been common knowledge, although many employers and manufacturers ignored warnings about deaths and illnesses caused by exposure to the substance.
Keep in mind that not all attorneys are equally qualified to represent a mesothelioma patient. Although a family lawyer or other attorney may be tecnically and legally capable of providing you or your family with legal representation, it is recommended that you seek out an skilled mesothelioma and asbestos attorney with experience representing other mesothelioma patients.