RI Mesothelioma Lawyer - d'Oliveira & Associates

Repeated exposure to asbestos has been scientifically and medically linked to severe respiratory complications such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. In relation to asbestos exposure and many other dangerous substances, we are working with some of the leading attorneys who handle these cases. A claim and/or Asbestos lawsuit can be filed on your behalf and there is no fee until you receive an award or settlement.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant cells are found in the lining of the chest or abdomen. Mesothelioma is nearly always caused by the inhalation of asbestos. Tiny asbestos fibers are inhaled through the mouth and nose and may eventually become trapped within the lungs and cause some severe health complications; one of which being mesothelioma.

The most common site for the development of mesothelioma is in the outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall. However, it may also develop around the abdomen and heart.

Who is at Risk for Mesothelioma?

Though everyone will have some exposure to asbestos throughout his or her lifetime, the people at the realest and greatest risk for mesothelioma are those who encounter routine exposure to asbestos. Routine exposure is usually due to certain occupations/industries, including:

• Mining
• Milling
• Insulation
• Textile manufacturing
• Construction
• Ship building
• Gaskets
• Brake linings
• The removal of asbestos.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Asbestos Mesothelioma?

Perhaps the most difficult characteristic of mesothelioma is that its signs and symptoms may not manifest, or appear, until 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and pain in the chest.

Other signs and symptoms of mesothelioma include:

• Pleural effusion (fluid surrounding the lung)
• Fatigue
• Anemia (lower than normal red blood cell count which can cause fatigue)
• Wheezing or cough
• Coughing up blood
• Abdominal pain
• A mass in the abdomen
• Weight loss
• Blood clots in the veins
• Jaundice
• Pleural effusion
• Low blood sugar level
• Blood clots in the arteries of the lungs

Because the signs and symptoms are very similar to those of other conditions and illnesses, mesothelioma is very difficult to diagnose. A history of asbestos exposure may raise the physician’s suspicion of the mesothelioma, so it’s important to disclose any relevant work history during which you may have been exposed. Generally, a biopsy (removal of tissue) is needed/used to diagnose the disease. Once mesothelioma is diagnosed, treatment begins.

What is the Treatment for Mesothelioma?

 The different types of treatment used are:

• Surgery: The most common form of surgery is removing the lining of the chest. However, research indicates that surgery alone has proven to be of limited success. Surgery is usually used in combination with chemotherapy and radiation.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy appears to be the most successful form of treatment. It is known to be the only form of treatment for mesothelioma that improved patients’ survival rates in both randomized and controlled studies.
• Radiation: Often given in combination with surgery, as a post-operative consolidative treatment. However, radiation is difficult to tolerate and therefore is not used in many patients.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is an attempt to use the immune system to reject cancer. This is done either through a process that essentially trains the immune system to recognize tumor cells and destroy them, or through administering drugs that will try to seek out and destroy cancer cells.

There are currently about 3000 new cases of mesothelioma diagnosed per year, mostly in men over the age of 40. It is estimated that there will be about 250,000 cases of mesothelioma before 2020.

The respiratory effects of asbestos exposure are irreversible. In relation to this, it is well known that smokers who have been exposed to asbestos are at an even more increased risk for respiratory problems than from either one by itself.

 Contact the Law Offices of d'Oliveira & Associates

If you believe that you or a loved one has become ill because of asbestos, you need a law firm that is experienced in handling these cases. Attorney Paul d'Oliveira and his Associate Attorneys have settled thousands of personal injury cases over the past 23 years. We know the best asbestos & mesothelioma lawyers for your specific type of case in RI and MA, and are committed to helping you find the best lawyer to represent you. Remember the attorneys we work with do not charge a fee until you recover an award or a settlement for your case. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, asbestos & mesothelioma cases are referred to a local attorney in your area who is experienced in litigating these types of cases. Please contact the law offices of d'Oliveira & Associates at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form for a free legal consultation.