The coronavirus pandemic caused by COVID-19 has sickened millions of people across the globe. What makes this disease particularly dangerous is its similarity to other respiratory conditions. These similarities can make COVID-19 difficult to identify initially, which may lead to a delay in treatment.
One disease that shares similarities with COVID-19 is mesothelioma. Below, we discuss the similarities and differences between these two diseases.
Coronavirus vs. Mesothelioma
COVID-19 and mesothelioma both affect the respiratory system. While COVID-19 is a virus that, most of the time, resolves in days to weeks, mesothelioma is an often terminal cancer for which treatment can only mitigate patients’ symptoms, but not cure them of the disease.
Aside from this one major difference, COVID-19 and mesothelioma are quite similar. Both present the following symptoms:
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Coughing
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Shortness of breath
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Difficulty breathing
Given the two diseases’ similar symptoms, it can be difficult for mesothelioma patients to understand whether their symptoms are due to a flare-up of their existing mesothelioma, or due to a new infection of COVID-19.
Therefore, it’s in the best interest of every mesothelioma patient to keep in regular contact with their oncologists for the best treatment plan. Depending on the severity of your symptoms (or whether you have new symptoms that you had not experienced previously), your doctor may decide it’s time for you to come in for an appointment.
Concerned About Mesothelioma? Contact Us Today
Individuals most at risk of developing complications from COVID-19 are the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, including mesothelioma. We know that mesothelioma is difficult to deal with, particularly during a global pandemic. What’s even more unjust is knowing that your case of mesothelioma could have been prevented had you not been exposed to toxic substances including asbestos.
At Shrader & Associates L.L.P., we make it our mission to protect the rights of mesothelioma patients who were exposed to asbestos by a negligent employer. We encourage you to contact us today so we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at (713) 787-3733 to schedule a consultation with our team.