If your doctor diagnosed you with mesothelioma, you will have a lot of questions. As a new cancer patient, you will need to know what the weeks and months ahead will be like for you. A skilled oncologist should help you out and answer most of your questions. If not, he or she should refer you to a doctor who can assist you. There are many aspects of dealing with mesothelioma, and all of the information can be overwhelming and challenging. Read on to find the top questions to ask when being diagnosed with mesothelioma.
1. How Much Experience Do You Have Treating Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer. As a result, your doctor may not have much experience treating the illness. Do be afraid to ask your doctor about the number of mesothelioma patients he or she has managed, and the kind of therapies he or she has performed. If your doctor does not have much experience, he or she should recommend a specialist.
2. What Type of Mesothelioma Do I Have?
When being diagnosed, your doctor should be able to identify and tell you the kind of mesothelioma you have. The type of mesothelioma describes the location from which mesothelioma originated. There are three types of this type of cancer: pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal. There have also been some sporadic cases of mesothelioma developing in the lining of the testicles.
3. How Advanced is My Cancer?
A specialist should tell you the stage of your disease. The stage describes how far cancer has progressed throughout your body. Most cases of mesothelioma are not discovered until at an advanced stage such as stage III or IV. The stage also determines your chances of survival. The doctor can make a prognosis that predicts the course of the illness and how it will affect your survival. However, some people are afraid to know their prediction.
4. What Are My Treatment Options?
Every mesothelioma case is different. A team of skilled oncologists work together to develop the best possible treatment plan for you. Most patients go through a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The stage of your cancer largely influences the appropriate treatment options and your overall health. Make sure you ask your doctor about all the available treatment options.
5. Are You Eligible for Compensation?
The main reason for looking for an attorney is because your condition is more likely stemmed from exposure to asbestos. You should consider seeking help from an attorney if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma. Lawyers who represent people with asbestos-related conditions work on a fee basis. You do not have to pay for the representation until you collect money from a verdict, a settlement, or an asbestos trust fund claim.This scenario means that the disease was preventable. However, you should check with your attorney whether you are eligible for compensation. Look for a reputable injury law firm such as the Law Firm in Jersey City.
You may feel overwhelmed when diagnosed with cancer. However, do not be afraid to ask questions since that is the only way to ensure you receive the best care.