What to Do After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis

New breath test may detect early-stage mesothelioma

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Researchers hope that a test of breath-based biomarkers can help them detect mesothelioma in its early stages. Louisville residents should know that historically, the U.S. has been lagging behind Europe in the use of breath tests to identify cancer. In 2017, a study from Belgium showed the potential benefits of breath tests for asbestos-related conditions like mesothelioma.

Developing a breath test for early-stage mesothelioma is important because cancer typically goes undiagnosed until its later stages, by which time most patients can only receive palliative care. Less than 25% would be eligible for surgery. Those who are diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma have a median survival rate of 9 to 18 months.

As part of the study, researchers will take the volatile organic compounds found on the breath of those with mesothelioma, predict the value of those compounds’ biomarkers and see if a formula cannot be developed that would allow breath samples to identify the disease. A breath biopsy could augment the various tests that are normally used to diagnose mesothelioma, including tissue biopsies, CT scans and blood tests.

Many in the building industry are exposed to asbestos on a regular basis, increasing their risk for mesothelioma. Every year in the U.S., an average of 3,000 people are diagnosed with the cancer, pleural mesothelioma being the most common.

Injured workers may be able to pursue a claim if they discover they are suffering from mesothelioma, asbestosis or another asbestos-related disease. Building up such a claim might require the work of investigators. Getting legal representation, then, may be wise. Once it is proven that the other side’s negligence indirectly caused the injury, the lawyer may strive for a settlement out of court.

swallowing problem

A Swallowing Problem May Indicate Mesothelioma (Rare Cancer)

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Swallowing problems could be mild and resolve on its own or potentially be something more serious, like the early sign of a mesothelioma cancer diagnosis.

Is Difficulty Swallowing a Sign of Mesothelioma?

Trouble swallowing may be an early indicator of an early sign indicating a cancer diagnosis of mesothelioma.

Medically known as “dysphagia,” this type of symptom involving swallowing difficulties is not usually associated with asbestos-related illnesses. However, a Spanish medical journal published an article expressing the view that a swallowing problem could indicate the beginning stage of mesothelioma.

When a Swallowing Problem Could Caused by Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that comes from asbestos exposure. It typically takes decades to develop after exposure and before patients start experiencing symptoms.

So if you’re young and don’t think you were exposed to asbestos, a swallowing problem probably isn’t a sign of mesothelioma.

But if you’re in your 60s or 70s and were exposed to asbestos at work, at home, or from smoking asbestos cigarettes, your swallowing problem could be a cause for concern.

There are two types of mesothelioma:

  • Pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs
  • Peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the abdomen

Asbestos exposure is always the cause for both types of mesothelioma.

What the Data Says

Nine out of 10 people diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma experience chest pain, breathing difficulties or both symptoms. Some patients may begin to cough. Peritoneal mesothelioma affecting the abdomen may cause the stomach area to feel bloated or painful. Approximately 20% of patients diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness are afflicted with peritoneal mesothelioma.

Dysphagia (trouble swallowing) is also caused by strokes, dementia, head injuries, cancer of the esophagus or cancer of the mouth.

According to the Spanish medical journal, a small number of patients with mesothelioma experience dysphagia. In most cases, dysphagia is not an early warning of mesothelioma. Most people do not experience any warning signs indicating that they have mesothelioma. Consequently, the cancer is typically too powerful to treat by the time a doctor makes the diagnosis.

How to Know if You Have Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing or dysphagia can feel like a number of different things, including:

  • Choking or coughing while eating
  • Food or drink getting stuck in your throat
  • Pain or discomfort while swallowing
  • A lump or sensation in the throat

You should always see a doctor if you’re having trouble swallowing, especially if it’s persistent.

What Else a Swallowing Problem Could Indicate

In addition to a rare cancer diagnosis of mesothelioma, a swallowing problem could be a symptom of something else:

  • Stroke
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Dementia
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Muscle disorders
  • Acid reflux
  • Benign growths
  • Tumors

As you can see, trouble swallowing could be mild, severe, or somewhere in between. That’s why it’s always best to check with your doctor.

Even though there is no cure for mesothelioma, an early medical diagnosis may help the patient live a longer, more productive life.

Someone who is dealing with mesothelioma may want to contact an attorney. Any employer that required an individual to work in an area contaminated with asbestos may be considered liable for damages. By filing a lawsuit, the patient could get compensation that covers medical costs.

Call us at 855-385-9532, locally 502-589-5600, or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation with a Satterley & Kelley PLLC lawyer.