Those who worked in the manufacturing, construction, and other industrial sectors may have been exposed to asbestos. Unfortunately, this exposure can lead to serious illnesses, including mesothelioma.
A mesothelioma diagnosis is a heartbreaking factor in these cases, leaving the victim and their loved ones searching for answers and financial help. With legal options afforded in the state, you can seek a financial recovery that allows you to receive the best possible care for your illness.
If you or someone you know worked in industries or locations where asbestos exposure was highest and are experiencing health issues, contact an Ottawa mesothelioma lawyer to learn more about your legal options. At Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP, we are committed to getting your help during this difficult time.
What Is Mesothelioma?
When people think of workplace cancers, they often cite mesothelioma. In the United States, about 3,000 cases are reported every year, according to the American Lung Association. This cancer begins in the mesothelium, which is a tissue that lines the lungs, heart, and stomach.
One of the primary factors of this disease is exposure to asbestos. Individuals can be affected in several ways through pleural or peritoneal mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, while peritoneal mesothelioma impacts other organs, such as the liver and stomach. The most commonly affected group includes men aged 40 and older. Many times, this disease will develop 20 to 40 years after exposure to asbestos.
Symptoms Associated With This Asbestos-Related Disease
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location of the cancer. For pleural mesothelioma, common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Chest or lower back pain
- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Swelling of the face and arms.
With peritoneal mesothelioma, some symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling or fluid in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
A few general symptoms associated with mesothelioma including:
- Fever
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood clots
- Loss of appetite
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, especially if there has been asbestos exposure, always get medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Your Diagnosis With This Asbestos-Related Disease
There are several steps to diagnosing mesothelioma. The process starts with a physical examination. The doctor will check for any unusual lumps or signs. After this, imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, are conducted to detect any abnormalities and determine the stage of the cancer.
In all cases, a biopsy is required where a small sample is removed for testing. If there are signs of this cancer, the prognosis is poor. Unfortunately, there is an average survival period of around one year.
However, individual prognoses can differ based on several factors. For example, the stage of the disease also plays a role, with early-stage mesothelioma offering a better prognosis compared to late-stage disease. Also, a patient’s overall health can impact their prognosis.
The average life expectancy after diagnosis is approximately 18 to 31 months with treatment; individual cases may vary. In fact, some patients have lived for more than 10 years. Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy can improve the survival rate.
Legal Options After You’re Diagnosed With Mesothelioma
If you or a family member has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Illinois, you have a few legal options available, such as:
Personal Injury Lawsuits
Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the parties responsible for their asbestos exposure. With this, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and the physical and emotional toll of the disease.
Wrongful Death Claims
In cases where a loved one has passed away due to mesothelioma, the surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. This legal avenue allows loved ones to seek accountability and financial support for the loss due to mesothelioma.
Asbestos Trust Fund Claims
Several companies that manufacture asbestos-containing products have established trust funds for individuals affected by asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma. One notable one in Illinois is the Owens Illinois Trust Fund. If you are eligible, you can file a claim against these trust funds to receive compensation and support for your illness.
Veterans’ Benefits
Unfortunately, even those who served our country have been affected by this deadly disease. Veterans exposed to asbestos during their military service may be entitled to benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These benefits include financial compensation, health care, and other forms of support tailored to the needs of veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Illinois has a statute of limitations that places a time limit on filing a claim. For mesothelioma patients, this limit is two years from the day of diagnosis. If you are a family member who lost a loved one, then it is two years from the date of their death.
With all these options, it can be difficult to navigate these cases successfully. For that reason, you will want to hire an experienced Ottawa mesothelioma lawyer. They can provide personalized guidance and representation so you can get the help you deserve.
You Need an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney in Ottawa, IL
After you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you will want to hold those responsible for their actions accountable. Many times, companies knew of these risks and still put workers in harm’s way. At Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP, we are committed to advocating for our clients.
While these lawsuits are about seeking compensation, they also send a powerful message about the importance of corporate responsibility. No one is above the law, and the civil justice system must hold everyone to the highest standards.
After a mesothelioma diagnosis, you want to get the help of an attorney with experience in managing similar cases. During this time, protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve is important.
We are here to provide legal assistance and offer you empathetic support to guide you through this difficult period. By advocating relentlessly on your behalf, you can concentrate on your health and well-being and spend time with your family.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with this aggressive form of cancer, reach out to our Ottawa mesothelioma lawyer. Contact us at Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP, to discuss your case and your rights during a free consultation.
