Mesothelioma Treatment: Coping with Side Effects
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which are the protective lining that covers most of the internal organs of the body. Mesothelioma is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing in the United States until the late 1970s.
Mesothelioma treatment can be challenging, and it often comes with a number of side effects that can be difficult to manage. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common side effects of mesothelioma treatment and provide tips to help you cope with them.
Chemotherapy
One of the most common treatments for mesothelioma is chemotherapy, which uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously, and it often comes with a number of side effects, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Mouth sores
- Increased risk of infection
To cope with these side effects, it is important to eat a healthy and balanced diet, get plenty of rest, and stay hydrated. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-nausea medications or recommend changes to your chemotherapy regimen to help minimize these side effects.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells, can also cause a number of side effects, including:
- Fatigue
- Skin irritation or burns
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Erectile dysfunction in men
- Infertility
To cope with these side effects, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and get plenty of rest. Your doctor may also recommend skin creams or other topical treatments to help soothe irritated skin, or prescribe medication to alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be used to remove mesothelioma tumors. Surgery can be a major undertaking, and it often comes with a number of side effects, including:
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling or bruising
- Loss of appetite
- Infection
To cope with these side effects, it is important to follow your doctor's post-operative instructions carefully, including taking pain medication as directed, getting plenty of rest, and following a healthy and balanced diet. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy or other rehabilitation strategies to help you recover from surgery.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are studies that test new treatments or medications for mesothelioma. While participating in a clinical trial can be an effective way to access new treatments, it can also come with a number of side effects, including:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Skin rashes or irritation
- Headache
- Increased risk of infection
To cope with these side effects, it is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, get plenty of rest, and stay hydrated. Your doctor may also prescribe medications or recommend changes to your treatment regimen to minimize these side effects.
Coping Strategies
In addition to the side effects of mesothelioma treatment, coping with the diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma can also be emotionally challenging. Some effective coping strategies include:
- Seeking support from loved ones or joining a support group
- Practicing relaxation and meditation techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga
- Engaging in physical activity, such as walking or swimming
- Seeking professional counseling or therapy
- Maintaining a positive outlook and focusing on the present moment
In summary, mesothelioma treatment can be challenging and often comes with a number of side effects. However, there are many strategies and resources available to help you cope with these side effects and maintain a positive outlook. By working closely with your medical team and taking care of your physical and emotional health, you can improve your quality of life and find hope in your journey towards recovery.