People who experience chest pain and shortness will ideally consult a doctor about their symptoms. However, some doctors will forego a complete round of tests to rule out mesothelioma. Instead, doctors might tell the patient that it is bronchitis or emphysema, and the patient goes home not knowing they have a deadly form of lung cancer.
If you or a loved one experiences chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, coughing up blood or pain in the upper arm or upper abdomen, consult a doctor immediately. Tell the doctor about your work history, as some occupations carry a high risk of mesothelioma. Tell the doctor if you have done any home remodeling in recent years that involved demolition. If disturbed, asbestos fibers get into the lungs and not even a mask can block the lungs from the deadly fibers.
Typically, doctors cannot see mesothelioma on a CT scan or MRI. Lung function tests and an abdominal examination can spot the early signs of mesothelioma. Often times, by the time doctors discover mesothelioma it can be too late. Early detection and treatment are key to making the most out of the remaining years. If a doctor rules out mesothelioma, get a second opinion from another physician.
Call our office at 504-522-7885 if you suffer harm from a medical misdiagnosis or medical error. Our website has more information on how we can help you.
Harrell & Nowak, LLC – New Orleans medical malpractice attorneys