ASBESTOS. MESOTHELIOMA. OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE THROUGHOUT GEORGIA.

Should I seek a second opinion for mesothelioma diagnosis?

On Behalf of | Sep 19, 2022 | Asbestos, Mesothelioma |

Shortness of breath, chest pains or other persistent symptoms may prompt you to visit your local doctor’s office. There, you will probably receive a diagnosis for a common ailment such as the flu. However, depending on your work history, you may have a reason to check for mesothelioma.

Old buildings may contain asbestos in the insulation. Contact with asbestos can manifest a cancer known as mesothelioma. While your doctor might clear you of the condition, there are reasons why your first doctor visit might not provide you with an accurate diagnosis.

Mesothelioma may mimic other conditions

The Mayo Clinic describes a variety of symptoms that mesothelioma can create, such as chest pain, nausea, weight loss, and pain or swelling in the abdominal region. Given that these symptoms also spring from other illnesses, it would not be hard for a doctor to think you have the flu or pneumonia.

If you had encountered asbestos or worked in an industry where this was possible, seeking out a second opinion from a mesothelioma specialist may confirm what you really have. Additionally, mesothelioma can produce other conditions. Your doctor could be correct in saying you have the flu but miss your mesothelioma.

You may find better treatment options

Remember that mesothelioma is not a common type of cancer. Even a doctor that diagnoses you with mesothelioma might not know the correct stage of the cancer or about treatments that may prolong your life. A patient could receive dire news from a local physician but later learn from a specialist that certain procedures may be of help.

You should feel confident that you have received all the proper information about your condition. In addition to finding life-preserving treatment, you could learn of a possible entitlement to compensation if occupational asbestos exposure was a factor in your illness.