A cancer diagnosis can be hard to accept. When that diagnosis can be potentially linked back to a work environment or a specific substance you were exposed to, like asbestos, then it can be even harder to accept because you feel like it could’ve been prevented. Mesothelioma is a specific kind of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. If you were unknowingly exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma, then you could have a personal injury claim against the negligent party responsible for your exposure.
At Thomas Law Offices, our Kansas City mesothelioma lawyer can help guide you through the legal claim process so that you can take the steps necessary to get compensation for the costs of doctor visits, treatments, and other expenses surrounding your diagnosis. We understand that this is a hard time for you and your family, which is why we’re prepared to handle the legal side of things for you while you focus on your treatment and recovery.
Common Reasons for Asbestos Exposure in Missouri
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was used in building materials and other everyday products because it is heat and electricity resistant and doesn’t corrode easily. The mineral has a lightweight, fibrous composition that can become airborne, which is when it becomes dangerous. If a person inhales or swallows the particles, it can’t be broken down by the body and ends up harming the organs that it is trapped in.
Even though mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer, and only about 3,000 people are diagnosed every year, it’s important to recognize its severity and the places where people are more likely to be affected by asbestos. Most mesothelioma diagnoses are seen in workers who were exposed to asbestos on their job site decades ago. Here are some of the jobs and other possible sites that are most at risk for asbestos exposure:
- Shipyards
- Industrial plants
- Power plants
- Construction
- Buildings and apartments
- Products, like talcum powder
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos on your job site in Missouri and subsequently were diagnosed with mesothelioma, then you could use the help of a Kansas City mesothelioma lawyer from Thomas Law Offices. We can guide you through the legal process of holding your company or the manufacturer responsible for your diagnosis.
Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The most common type of mesothelioma that patients are diagnosed with is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs. Other types are peritoneal, which affects the abdomen, and pericardial, which affects the heart. While there are general symptoms of mesothelioma, there are also more specific symptoms that correlate to the region where the cancer has affected. Here are some of the symptoms, according to the American Cancer Society:
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blood clots
- Loss of appetite
Here are the symptoms more specific to pleural mesothelioma:
- Pain in chest and back
- Trouble breathing
- Coughing
- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
Here are some of the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma:
- Pain in the abdomen
- Swelling in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
Here are some of the symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma:
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
These symptoms alone don’t necessarily mean that you have mesothelioma, but they do warrant a visit to a medical professional for an evaluation. If these symptoms lead to a mesothelioma diagnosis, you’ll likely want to track your diagnosis back to a cause. Our Kansas City mesothelioma lawyer can help you figure out who is responsible for your asbestos exposure and hold them accountable.
Thomas Law Offices Can Handle Your Kansas City, MO Case
A cancer diagnosis changes your life. When that diagnosis was potentially preventable if your worksite or products you used hadn’t contained asbestos, you likely want to get justice for your unnecessary exposure. A Kansas City mesothelioma lawyer from Thomas Law Offices will fully investigate your claim so that you can get answers about what caused your mesothelioma.
If a company, product manufacturer, or other entity is found to be responsible for your asbestos exposure, you could be eligible for compensation for your damages. Our office can fight for your full and fair financial recovery while you focus on your physical and mental health through your diagnosis and treatment. Reach out to us today so that we can discuss your legal options.