When someone in Ohio receives a diagnosis of mesothelioma, the prognosis is usually bleak. Mesothelioma often shows no symptoms until the cancer has progressed to its later stages. Because it may present with flu-like symptoms, mesothelioma is sometimes misdiagnosed until the point at which treatment options are limited. Those options, when applied aggressively, along with positive lifestyle changes, may add time and quality to a patient’s life.
Older patients may not be strong enough to weather the long treatment process, and their prognoses may not be as good. Many find that improved nutrition and exercise, in conjunction with traditional therapies, increase their chances of survival. Finding a doctor who specializes in mesothelioma also makes a difference. These doctors have access to the latest research and treatment options.
Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are used in a variety of combinations to treat the three types of mesothelioma. Depending on how far the cancer has spread, surgery may not be possible for some patients. However, combinations of radiation and chemo may still be options for those people.
Patients in Ohio who are facing long battles with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related cancers may be worried about paying for the treatments, especially if they are unable to work because of their illnesses. If prolonged exposure to asbestos is thought to be the cause of a person’s cancer, he or she may benefit from legal representation. Having a lawyer with experience in the practice of asbestos law will increase a patient’s chances of receiving compensation for the suffering caused by high levels of asbestos in the workplace.
Source: treatmesothelioma.org, “Mesothelioma Prognosis & Life Expectancy“, Accessed on Nov. 4, 2016