Mesothelioma and PTSD

People suffering from mesothelioma usually go through a lot of difficulties. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that occurs after asbestos exposure. For starters, mesothelioma treatment can be costly. Victims of mesothelioma and their loved ones usually spend a lot of money from the time of diagnosis through post-treatment care. Some spend thousands of dollars, and, others, even more. The amount of money a victim of mesothelioma spends generally depends on their treatment plan, health care provider, and other factors.

Secondly, mesothelioma often causes pain, which is usually one of the early signs of mesothelioma. As fluids build up and tumors grow, it usually becomes difficult for a victim to digest food, breathe, and even cough without experiencing pain. Additionally, fluid buildup, which leads to increased pressure, can also cause pain in a victim’s abdomen or chest.

Severe pain can interfere with the day-to-day life of a mesothelioma patient. For instance, pain can prevent a patient from working or participating in other everyday activities, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The day-to-day lives of families of patients also suffer when pain is involved.

Mesothelioma can also lead to emotional distress. Emotional distress can occur as a result of several things. For instance, handling treatments in the midst of managing medical bills, communication with friends and family, and insurance appointments can lead to emotional distress. Today, researchers suggest that people are being affected emotionally by cancer diagnosis more than ever before.

While emotional trauma is a normal response in a situation where a cancer diagnosis is involved, it becomes post-traumatic stress disorder when a patient cannot move past the shock. PTSD is a type of psychiatric disorder that occurs in individuals after they experience or witness a life-threatening event. According to studies, one-fifth of individuals with cancer suffer from PTSD. If an individual does not get enough support after being diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other terminal cancer, they may end up suffering from PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder is characterized by symptoms such as;

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Persistent negative thoughts
• Excessive vigilance
• Trouble sleeping
• Avoidance behavior
• Recurrent nightmares

Feelings of anxiety and fear are prevalent among people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other form of cancer. Unfortunately, these feelings usually worsen as treatment progresses. Such feelings can interfere with a person’s daily life.

Events that may trigger post-traumatic stress disorder in mesothelioma patients include;

• Diagnosis of mesothelioma
• Treatment
• Staying in hospital
• Pain
• Other devastating side effects

Both individuals recently diagnosed with mesothelioma and those that successfully survive mesothelioma can experience PTSD. Mesothelioma survivors can experience PTSD due to fear of recurrence. There is a need to monitor PTSD among long-term mesothelioma survivors because most PTSD symptoms are enduring. Such symptoms can impact treatment adherence.

Being diagnosed with mesothelioma and any other cancer has many physical, financial, and psychological effects. Understanding all the effects of a mesothelioma diagnosis is crucial as it can help a patient and their family determine how much compensation they are eligible to receive. Additionally, being fully aware of all the effects of a mesothelioma diagnosis is vital as it can help victims and their families cope better with the situation.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with either mesothelioma or lung cancer, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced asbestos attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.