Since the early 1970s, Cooney & Conway has stood at the forefront of mesothelioma litigation, fighting for victims of asbestos exposure. Through our decades of experience, we've gained deep insights into how this devastating disease impacts individuals and families. Today, we're sharing crucial information about mesothelioma, its causes, and the legal options available to those affected.
Understanding Mesothelioma: The Basics
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the protective lining of organs. Unlike many other cancers, mesothelioma has a single known cause - exposure to asbestos fibers. The disease can remain dormant for decades before symptoms appear, often making early diagnosis challenging.
Types of Mesothelioma
The disease manifests in different forms, each affecting specific areas of the body:
- Pleural Mesothelioma: Accounting for nearly 90% of cases, this type affects the lung lining. Symptoms include chest pain, painful breathing, persistent coughing, and shortness of breath.
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma: The second most common form develops in the abdominal cavity lining. Patients often experience abdominal pain, swelling, unexplained weight loss, and digestive issues.
- Pericardial Mesothelioma: This rare form affects the heart lining, causing chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and breathing difficulties.
- Testicular Mesothelioma: The rarest form of mesothelioma, affecting the tunica vaginalis testis (the lining of the testicles). Symptoms typically include painless testicular lumps or swelling, and may be mistaken for other testicular conditions. This type accounts for less than 1% of all mesothelioma cases.
Understanding Asbestos Exposure
Through our extensive work with mesothelioma victims, we've identified numerous sources of asbestos exposure. Common exposure sites include:
Industrial Settings:
- Construction sites
- Steel mills
- Power plants
- Oil refineries
- Shipyards
- Manufacturing facilities
Occupational Exposure:
- Construction workers
- Industrial workers
- Military personnel (especially Navy veterans)
- Automotive mechanics
- Electricians
- Plumbers and pipefitters
Additionally, many household products historically contained asbestos, from insulation materials to talcum powder products. Family members of workers exposed to asbestos could also face secondary exposure from fibers brought home on clothing.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Treatment
Early detection can significantly impact treatment options and outcomes. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent coughing
- Chest or abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fluid buildup
If you've been exposed to asbestos and experience these symptoms, especially if you worked in high-risk industries, consult a medical professional immediately. Mention your asbestos exposure history, as symptoms can often be mistaken for less serious conditions.
Legal Rights and Options
At Cooney & Conway, we've successfully recovered over $7 billion for our clients, including a recent $30 million verdict for the family of a mesothelioma victim.
When pursuing a mesothelioma case, understanding the legal journey ahead is crucial. Our decades of experience have shown that each case requires thorough preparation and careful attention to detail. The process typically involves several key stages:
- Case Evaluation: We assess your exposure history and medical condition
- Research and Documentation: Identifying responsible parties and exposure sources
- Filing Claims: Pursuing compensation through lawsuits or asbestos trust funds
- Settlement or Trial: Fighting for maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Taking Action
Time is crucial in mesothelioma cases, both for medical treatment and legal action. State laws set strict deadlines for filing claims, and vital evidence becomes harder to gather as time passes. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, take these important steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Document your work history and potential exposure sites
- Contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney
At Cooney & Conway, we offer:
- Free case evaluations
- No upfront costs
- Contingency-based representation
- Nationwide service from our Chicago headquarters
Looking Forward
While no amount of compensation can undo the damage caused by asbestos exposure, taking legal action can help secure the resources needed for medical care and provide financial security for your family. Our experienced team at Cooney & Conway is ready to help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us at (800) 322-5573 for a free consultation or fill out our online case evaluation form. Your consultation is completely confidential, and you are not obligated to proceed with legal action.
You don't have to face this challenge alone. Let our experience and dedication work for you while you focus on what matters most: your health and your family.
Sources:
Mesothelioma.com - What Is Pleural Mesothelioma?
Moffit Cancer Center - Types of Mesothelioma