Questions to Ask After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis

If you just learned that you have mesothelioma, there is a lot you need to know, and so it is understandable if you have a lot of questions on your mind. It is vital that you ask your cancer care team all those questions. You should ask all questions without worrying that a question is irrelevant or small. When it comes to mesothelioma, no question is small or irrelevant. Mesothelioma is a complicated and aggressive disease, so it is crucial that you ask all the questions you can think of. If you cannot get an answer to a question, ensure you keep pushing for an answer.

However, although no question is small or irrelevant, it is crucial that you ask certain questions. The following are some of the specific questions the American Cancer Society recommends asking after being told you have mesothelioma;

• What type of mesothelioma am I suffering from?
• What is the location of my cancer?
• Has the mesothelioma spread beyond where it started?
• Do I need more tests before I can decide on a treatment plan?
• What is the extent of my cancer, and what does that mean?
• Do I need to see other specialists?
• Who can help me if I am worried about treatment costs?

Keep Asking Questions Throughout the Journey

When you are told you have mesothelioma and you ask questions, that should not be the end of you asking questions. It would be best if you kept asking questions throughout the journey.

When deciding on a treatment plan, the American Cancer Society advises asking, among many others, the following questions;

• What treatment options are available for me?
• What treatment option do you recommend and why?
• What is the goal of treatment?
• When do I need to start treatment?
• How long will treatment last?
• Should I consider a clinical trial?
• How will treatment affect my life? Can I continue working?
• What will we do if treatment does not work?

During treatment, some of the questions the American Cancer Society advises asking include;

• How will we tell if treatment is working?
• Is there a way I can manage side effects?
• What side effects or symptoms should I report to you immediately?
• Do I need to change my diet?
• Can I exercise? If so, what exercises do you recommend and how often?

After treatment, the American Cancer Society advises asking, among many others, the following questions;

• What type of follow-up do I require?
• Are there certain things that I cannot do?
• How will we know if the mesothelioma is back? What symptoms should I watch out for?
• What will my options be if the mesothelioma returns?

In conclusion, it is recommended that you write down your questions, so you do not forget to ask a particular question.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers

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