Types of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is categorized by the area of the body which it affects. All mesothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the protective lining of the lungs, the heart, and the abdominal cavity and organs.

Pleural Mesothelioma

About 75% of people with mesothelioma have pleural mesothelioma. It affects the pleura - the membrane surrounding the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma is not lung cancer, although it is easy to confuse the two. Lung cancer is cancer of the lung tissue itself, rather than the lining of the lungs.

There is no cure for mesothelioma, but early detection can add years to your life. Unfortunately, misdiagnosis is common as the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma can be mistaken for symptoms of other health problems including asthma, pneumonia, or even bruised ribs.

Symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath after exertion
• Difficulty breathing at rest
• Persistent coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Rasping
• Difficulty swallowing
• Weight loss
• Fever

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

The peritoneum is the membrane surrounding the internal organs and abdominal cavity. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the abdominal organs and, in some cases, the testicles. It interferes with the lubrication needed for your digestive organs to work properly. Fluid builds up in the abdomen, causing pressure, pain, and sometimes shortness of breath. The tumors exert their own pressure, creating blockages and severe pain.

In its early stages, this form of mesothelioma is easily mistaken for simple digestive problems. The pressure it creates in the abdomen can also affect breathing. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal swelling
• Stomach pain
• Lower abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Weight lost
• Weakness
• Bowel obstruction
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Chest pain
• Anemia
• Blood clotting abnormalities
• Fever

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest of the three. It affects the sac which protects and lubricates the heart. Without proper lubrication, the tissue around the heart expands and fluid accumulates. The heart cannot beat properly and the pressure is extremely painful.

The symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma usually do not become noticeable until after there is irreparable damage to the heart. Symptoms include:

• Heart palpitations
• Irregular heart beat
• Chest pain
• Persistent coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath

Experienced Mesothelioma Representation

If you or a loved one has developed mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your damages. Often, employers knew about the dangers of asbestos exposure, yet never took the steps to warn or protect their employees. The lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers have handled many asbestos and mesothelioma claims, and we have the skills needed to protect your rights in this highly complex area of law.

Please contact our mesothelioma lawyers today to schedule your free initial consultation. Jacoby & Meyers has offices nationwide, including Southern California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Alabama.