It is critical that you have an open line of communication with your physician and other health care providers who are treating your disease. This is important in receiving proper care and managing your pain levels. Unfortunately, many patients dealing with mesothelioma are afraid that their doctor will think of them as complaining and never speak up about how much pain they are actually in – thereby shorting them on their pain medication. If you are experiencing pain before or during treatment, it is important to consult with your doctor before the pain becomes more intense and becomes difficult to manage. You have the right to the best care available, which includes relief for pain.
The Throneberry Law Group provides sound legal advice and the representation you need to secure financial reparation for the emotional and financial consequences of mesothelioma. We are dedicated to supporting our clients and encouraging them to advocate for their own care. Our attorneys have represented clients across the nation after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, and our principal attorney Michael Throneberry personally experienced his own father's death from the disease. We are available to help you connect with the medical professionals who can treat you, and we can help you ask the right questions.
Discussing Pain and Its Impact on Your Day to Day Living
Determining the right treatments for mesothelioma relies heavily on an accurate assessment of the pain caused by the cancer. Pain isn't seen by others, making the role of the patient critical in to the process of treatment. When you prepare to discuss your pain levels and management of the disease with your health care providers, it is important to be as specific as possible.
Let your doctor know:
- Where your pain is located
- How the pain feels to you (use words that describe your pain, such as stabbing, throbbing, piercing, aching, dull, sharp, burning, pinching, or tingling)
- How intense your pain is and how your pain changes throughout the day
- Whether your pain is intermittent or constant
- How quickly you begin to experience pain, how long your pain lasts and how frequently you experience pain
- Anything that makes the pain worse
- Anything that makes the pain better
- What your current medications are
- What the side effects of the medication are
- The impact of the pain on your day to day living
It's easy to be intimidated by a doctor's examination, so try writing this information down and bringing it with you to your appointment. Consider having a family or friend come with you to the appointment to take notes of what you're discussing with your physician. Never be scared to tell your doctor how you feel, and if you're not understanding something fully, don't be afraid to ask for more information.
What to Ask Your Doctor
You have the right to know all of the information related to your disease, and you have the right to ask as many questions as you need to in order to fully understand everything related to your diagnosis. While these issues aren't always easy to talk about, they will give you the information you need to make informed decisions regarding your care. Remember, this is your life and your health.
Ask your doctor:
- How far has the disease progressed?
- What symptoms will I experience at each stage of the disease?
- What treatments am I a good candidate for?
- What are the benefits and drawbacks of each type of treatment?
- What therapies and medications are available for pain management?
- What are the side effects of treatments and medications?
- If I am being prescribed medications, how should I take the medicine and for how long?
- What interactions might these medications/treatments cause with other medicines I am currently taking?
- What are possible non-medication therapies to control my pain?
We Work Hard to Secure Medical Coverage
Treatment for mesothelioma is expensive. We are experienced in tracking down the original source of asbestos exposure, so we can pursue full and fair compensation on your behalf in order to cover the vast medical expenses associated with meso treatment. Our attorneys will travel to you, and are available to assist both victims and caregivers.
Contact our law office today by calling 480-605-4967 or schedule a free initial consultation with us online.