Why Getting a Second Opinion After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis May Help Your Claim

Mesothelioma is a rare and often aggressive form of cancer that is both difficult to diagnose and treat. Symptoms typically do not manifest until 20 to 50 years after initial exposure to asbestos and share similarities with other diseases and illnesses. A second opinion could help ensure the most effective treatment and increase one’s chances of getting the compensation they need in a mesothelioma claim.

A Maryland mesothelioma lawyer from our firm is ready to help you start the claims process with a free consultation. You may be eligible to recoup costs associated with past, current and future medical bills.

Benefits of Receiving a Second Opinion

Being diagnosed with mesothelioma can be devastating and reviewing treatment options can also be overwhelming. Getting a second opinion from an experienced doctor could be the difference between undergoing adequate treatment or being incorrectly diagnosed. It may even help strengthen a potential claim for compensation.

Benefits of receiving a second opinion include the following:

• Improved life expectancy –  A diagnosis confirmed by a mesothelioma specialist could help offer a more accurate and specialized treatment plan with a longer survival time.
• New treatment options – Treatment options may be limited with the initial doctor who diagnosed you with mesothelioma. Seeing a different doctor may provide opportunities for treatment options not previously known, such as surgery, clinical trials or alternative therapies.
• Peace of mind – If a second option confirms the first diagnosis, this may provide more confidence and certainty in knowing that the doctor is doing everything he or she can do to help.

Why Mesothelioma is Difficult to Diagnose

Mesothelioma is one of the most difficult diseases to diagnose because not many doctors have experience diagnosing or treating it. They may see one or two mesothelioma cases in their entire careers, if at all. The disease resembles other cancers on imaging tests such as x-rays or CT-scans that are also harder to identify under a microscope. It can be misdiagnosed as pneumonia or lung cancer.

This is why getting a second opinion as soon as possible from an experienced doctor is important for a proper diagnosis and the best available treatment options.

How to Ask for a Second Opinion

It is understandable to feel uncomfortable about asking for a second opinion. However, it is more common than you think. Do not be afraid to ask your initial doctor for recommendations. Most doctors may suggest that you obtain a second opinion or refer you to another doctor before you even ask. Exploring all of your treatment options is a positive step forward.

Get started by researching specialists in your area. Sometimes you may find a local doctor with the right experience or you may need to travel a bit further. Ask the doctor as many questions as you can. The more specific, the better, such as his or her diagnostic process, the side effects from recommended treatments and what options are available if the treatment does not work for you.

Looking to File a Mesothelioma Claim?

Getting a second opinion after a mesothelioma diagnosis may not only help provide a more effective treatment but may also allow you to file a more detailed mesothelioma claim to pursue compensation for the damages you have suffered.

Our lawyers at The Law Offices of Peter T. Nicholl are ready to take your call. There is no risk in scheduling a free consultation to learn about your legal options and there is no obligation to hire us if we determine that you have a valid claim.

Contact our office today by calling 410-244-7005.