If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is normal to feel confused or upset. It is also common to have questions regarding treatment options, hospitals to treat at, medical expenses, and more. As mesothelioma is a rare yet aggressive form of cancer, it is important to recognize symptoms that are associated with it. This will enable the patient to explore more potential treatment options. There are many questions to ask after a mesothelioma diagnosis and receiving answers to these questions could help the patient and loved one’s have more clarity. The following list includes 5 questions to ask after a mesothelioma diagnosis. While these can be useful to inquire about, every patient is different and needs a tailored approach.
Questions to Ask After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
- What treatment options are available?
- What type of mesothelioma do I have?
- How much will treatment cost?
- What are the potential side effects of treatment?
- Are there support services for patients and loved ones?
Question 1: What Treatment Options Are Available?
After receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis, patients tend to think about the cancer treatment they will receive. It is useful to ask your doctor about the treatment plans that are available for your particular type and stage of mesothelioma. Common treatments for mesothelioma include:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Immunotherapy
- Surgery
Patients also may be eligible to enroll in clinical trials. Consulting with a doctor can help the mesothelioma patient with determining the best possible course of action when it comes to treatment.
Question 2: What Type of Mesothelioma Do I Have?
There are four different types of mesothelioma, each originating in different parts of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which begins in the lining of the lungs. There are three other types of mesothelioma: peritoneal mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma, and testicular mesothelioma. Understanding the type of mesothelioma you have can be helpful when it comes to treatment.
Question 3: How Much Will Treatment Cost?
Medical expenses can be a large burden for those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. A key question to ask after a mesothelioma diagnosis would understandably be related to treatment costs. Treatment can be very expensive, depending on a variety of factors. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma you are likely eligible for compensation for your diagnosis due to the causes of mesothelioma coming from asbestos. This compensation can help pay for things related to treatment. Our team of attorneys have decades of experience fighting for the rights of mesothelioma victims and obtaining compensation for our clients.
Question 4: What Are the Potential Side Effects of Mesothelioma Treatment?
There are various potential treatment options for those who have received a mesothelioma diagnosis. Different types of treatment can be accompanied by different potential side effects. Asking your doctor about side effects you may experience could be something to consider. For instance, common side effects of chemotherapy include:
- Hair loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Bruising
Question 5: Are There Support Services for Patients and Loved Ones?
It is important to have a good support network when navigating a cancer diagnosis. It is a good idea to ask your care team if they offer any services, such as counseling or nutritional services. In many cases, these services are available. You can also look into support groups for both patients and caregivers.
These are just a sampling of questions to ask after a mesothelioma diagnosis, and each individual could have more questions specific to their situation. Our website is filled with more information about mesothelioma, including common treatments, mesothelioma treatment centers in and around Pennsylvania, and legal help.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related disease, we are here to help. We have free resources available for those who would like more information. To get these resources or to speak to a member of our team, call (800) 505-6000, fill out our contact form, or utilize the chat feature.
Sources: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/malignant-mesothelioma/treating/chemotherapy.html
