When you first realized you may be suffering symptoms of a chronic illness, you may have immediately tried to figure out its cause. Once your doctor diagnosed you with asbestos-related disease, you didn’t have to think much further since you worked in an environment prone to asbestos exposure for years. Your doctor likely explained to you that there is no known cure for asbestosis or mesothelioma (two of the most common forms of asbestos-related illnesses), yet there may be several things you can do to help cope.
No two situations are exactly the same. When it comes to living with incurable illness, you will no doubt have some days that are better than others. The key is to try to find a medium where you are able to get the most out daily life and gain quick access to support when needed.
Practical tips for living with chronic illness
The more you know about your particular condition, the better off you’ll likely be in the long-run. Knowledge of your illness arms you with information so you can make informed decisions and be proactive in your own care and treatment program. The following list includes ideas that may help you achieve highest quality of life possible in your circumstances:
- Never be afraid to ask questions: Your care providers are meant to assist you. If you have a question about your illness or a treatment plan, medicine, test, etc., feel free to ask one or more knowledgeable parties, and keep asking until you are satisfied that your question has been sufficiently answered.
- Know your body: Paying attention to your own physical and mental health can help you obtain the best possible care. If you notice a change or increase in severity of your symptoms, you can act quickly to access support to address the problem. As for the psychological aspects of dealing with chronic illness, you may have support groups available in your area where you can seek encouragement and offer support to others facing similar experiences.
- Forge a strong support network: Everyone from medical nurses, doctors, licensed counselors, ministers, close friends and experienced attorneys may be crucial to building a strong support team in your favor. Choose your advocates carefully and know how to quickly get in touch with them, if needed.
Living with chronic illness may pose serious challenges in all areas of your life. If your illness is asbestos-related, your family members may also be at risk. Discussing issues as a family and designing a plan of action for problems that arise can help you and your loved ones obtain the highest standard care, as well as help you continue to live as full a life as possible in your situation.
Making justice part of your action plan
Many Pennsylvania shipyard, coal mine and other factory workers pursue justice in civil court after learning they were suffering from asbestos exposure-induced illnesses.
If you’d like to consider this as an option, you can begin by discussing your particular circumstances with an experienced personal injury attorney.