Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that typically develops in the lungs or abdominal organs. Associated with symptoms like painful cough, shortness of breath and fatigue, this illness can have a devastating impact on both physical and psychological health.
What’s more, the methods used to treat mesothelioma are often aggressive in nature, and lead to a number of uncomfortable effects.
Thankfully, there are several ways patients with mesothelioma can improve their health and restore quality of life, no matter their diagnosis or prognosis. Keep reading for tips on coping with mesothelioma and the treatment process, which includes information on traditional therapies, lifestyle choices and more.
Education
Since mesothelioma is a rare disease, a definitive diagnosis may come along with a number of questions and concerns. Open communication with a physician can offer a better understanding of mesothelioma and its treatment options, which, in turn, helps patients play a more active role in their own recovery. Common concerns relating to a mesothelioma diagnosis include the disease’s type, location and stage, as well as questions regarding the risks and side effects associated with certain treatment options. This can help alleviate fears and anxieties, as well as help patients prepare for the treatment stage of recovery.
Psychological Treatment
Understandably, a cancer diagnosis can lead to a variety of issues relating to psychological and emotional health. Many patients experience depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings and other effects, which can interfere with daily activities, as well as impact health and quality of life. Therefore, seeking psychological treatment is often necessary to overall well-being.
Through talk therapy, patients can work through the psychological effects of this disease, as well as formulate coping strategies in the interest of long-term mental health. Plus, support groups, family counseling and other psychological services are conducive to recovery, as they address the varied emotional effects associated with mesothelioma and other types of cancer.
Compensation
In most cases, mesothelioma is a direct result of exposure to asbestos. And since workplace exposure to this toxic substance is extremely common, many patients are entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other factors. For these individuals, law firms specializing in mesothelioma can often prove workplace exposure and recover damages from insurance companies and negligent employers. And while a lawsuit may not aid in physical recovery, it can provide peace of mind and the financial means to seek effective treatment.
Lifestyle Choices
Mesothelioma can have devastating effects on the body, as can the methods used to treat it. For example, chemotherapy, radiation and pain management drugs are associated with a number of uncomfortable effects, some of which include nausea and vomiting, weakness and fatigue, poor body function and sleep disturbances. However, with the following lifestyle choices, patients can improve strength, enhance energy and restore healthy body function:
- Dietary changes. An unhealthy diet can exacerbate the symptoms of mesothelioma, as well as worsen the side effects of certain therapies and medications. On the other hand, a balanced, nutrient-rich meal plan can help patients build strength, enhance energy, improve digestive function and much, much more.
- Physical activity. Regular exercise can provide a number of advantages to mesothelioma patients. For example, even mild physical activity, such as yoga or walking, can boost energy, reduce depression and anxiety, improve body function and lend to better quality of sleep.
- Staying busy. For patients with mesothelioma, staying busy is essential to a healthy recovery. For example, hobbies, relationships, and other interests can help alleviate the emotional and psychological effects of this illness, as well as enhance overall quality of life.
Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive disease that is often difficult to treat. And while this illness is associated with a number of symptoms and effects, the tips listed here will help patients aid in their own recovery as they improve health and well-being.
Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive disease that is often difficult to treat. And while this illness is associated with a number of symptoms and effects, the tips listed here will help patients aid in their own recovery as they improve health and well-being.