Steps To Take When Diagnosed With Mesothelioma
Facing a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be overwhelming and shocking for both the patient and family members. It is often unexpected and can feel as if the rug has been pulled out from under your feel. Many who are diagnosed with mesothelioma feel a sense of powerlessness, heartbreak, fear and anger when they are first told the cancer is terminal.
Mesothelioma is a cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was well known for being durable, fire resistant, and a superb, multi-purposed insulator. Because of these properties, and its affordability and availability, asbestos was used in many commercial, manufacturing and industrial products, causing many people to be exposed occupationally as well as environmentally.
Asbestos, when inhaled or ingested, causes serious and fatal illnesses. Mesothelioma is one type of incurable cancer caused by inhaling asbestos, which then becomes lodged in the lining of the lungs, chest or abdomen. Mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until decades later because of a long latency period between time of first exposure and development of symptoms.
Increased research and improved diagnostic measures have helped and yet mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached advanced stages because the symptoms are difficult to diagnose. Although new treatments and drug therapies prolonging survival times and improving quality of life are being investigated, the majority of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma have less than two years to live.
For the patient as well as loved ones, it can be very difficult to face and cope with a terminal diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. Common feelings associated with initial diagnosis are denial, anger, shock and grief. While some will resist and deny the reality of having a terminal illness, others will reach a stage of acceptance. Exploring end of life concerns and wishes often forces patients and loved ones to face a variety of emotions and concerns.
There are some things that can help to cope better and feel some sense of control during the time of initial diagnosis.
1. Inform yourself: learn as much as possible about mesothelioma, the causes, what type and which stage you have been diagnosed with. Also find out as much as possible about standard, frontline treatments as well as alternative therapies and latest drug research. If you are overwhelmed, resigned, or too upset, ask for a loved one to help you research your illness. Explore the possibility of participating in a clinical trial, which accepts eligible patients and tries new treatment methods with the aim of extending survival time and improving quality of life. Ask your mesothelioma specialist about any clinical trials in the area and about your eligibility to join.
2. Learn, Learn, Learn: Learn as much as you possibly can about the type of mesothelioma you have, including causes and stages of the disease. Learn about frontline treatments as well as investigate new drug therapies and alternative treatment options. If you are physically or emotionally unable to do so, ask for help from a good friend or family member. There are many clinical trials which may lead to extended survival time and improved quality of life. Ask your mesothelioma specialist if there are any clinical trials in the nearby area that you would qualify for.
3. Explore all avenues of compensation, both legal and medical: Know what medical and health benefits are covered by your insurance. Consult with a mesothelioma lawyer who specializes in asbestos lawsuits who will help you get financial compensation to offset loss of wages and medical costs. Even before the 1960′s, manufacturers knew that asbestos was a threat to health and yet did not warn or protect employees and the general public from exposure and risk of disease. An experienced mesothelioma attorney will readily identify possible sources of exposure, quickly file an asbestos lawsuit, and maximize monetary recovery.
4. Take Part in Support Groups: Hospitals often have support groups that meet on site. National and on-line support groups can also provide useful resources. Sharing with other people who are experiencing the same situation can provide you with information and help you to feel comfortable talking about your own concerns.
5. Take good care of yourself: Spending time with loved ones and family members can help during when times get tough. Talking about past times together, good and bad, can create healing and connection. Sharing about current events as well as good times of the past can help lighten ones mood and decrease pain and anxiety.
Most patients and their families will realize that even with new treatments and drug therapies, mesothelioma can not be cured although life can be extended and quality of life can be improved. Taking steps like those listed above can help mesothelioma patients and their loved ones realize that despite not being able to change the diagnosis, they do have some choice about how to move forward in treating the illness that can make a difference.
For more information, call toll free 1-800-440-4262.
Related posts:
- Where To Find Practical Mesothelioma Advice
Mesothelioma, which is comparatively rare than other cancer forms, destroys... - Drug Treatment Helps You Understand Drug Addiction And How To Cure It
If you or someone you care about has succumbed to... - Getting Over Break Up Steps of Recovery
Are you getting over break up right now? Do you... - Psychological Adjustments To Cancer Made Easier By Hypnotism
There is one universal psychological response to cancer, despite that... - Natural Treatment Methods for Cancer
There are many people that are stepping out of the...
Tagged with: Health
Filed under: Health
Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!
Leave a Reply