Mesothelioma – Alternative and Complementary Treatment

Alternative or “complementary” treatments are those therapies that fall outside of the realm of what is known as “traditional” treatments. In the case of pleural mesothelioma, they include treatments that are not normally recommended by physicians to treat this type of cancer. However, more and more often, doctors are beginning to recognize the advantages of these therapies and some cancer treatment centers and other hospitals are now offering a number of these alternative therapies onsite.

Breath Training for Pleural Mesothelioma

According to the experts at the Mayo Clinic, there are a number of complimentary treatments that can help relieve the breathlessness that accompanies pleural mesothelioma. While wearing oxygen or taking certain medications can help with shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, patients may want to try what physical therapists describe as “breath training.” This treatment trains the patient to learn techniques that prompt them to draw in as much oxygen as possible while breathing. Not only does this allow the patient to be more comfortable but it also may help avoid hyperventilation, which can lead to fainting and other problems.

Stress Reducers

Any cancer diagnosis causes stress and pleural mesothelioma is no exception. Most cancer patients report extreme anxiety and difficulty relaxing due to their disease and the need to deal with their diagnosis on a daily basis. While their doctor may prescribe anti-anxiety or depression drugs, there are more natural ways to address stress.

• Massage – A therapeutic massage is one of the best ways to reduce stress. Not only does it soothe weary muscles but it promotes a sense of relaxation. Preliminary studies show that it may also enhance the immune system. In some cases, insurance companies pay for therapeutic massage. You can also take advantage of these treatments as much as necessary.
• Yoga – For those patients able to participate in this activity, yoga is an excellent way to lead a calmer life. If you want to try this out, let the yoga instructor know about your cancer and your limitations. Some hospitals have special yoga classes for patients.
• Meditation – Meditating allows the patient to achieve a sense of calm no matter where they might be. Once you learn the techniques of meditation, you can call upon them at any time, making this an affordable form of relaxation therapy.

Pain Management Therapies  

Pain is a problem for most pleural mesothelioma sufferers, and while it can be addressed with medications, some prefer to look for a natural way to relieve pain.

• Acupuncture – This form of Ancient Chinese medicine has long been recognized as helpful in addressing the pain of cancer. An acupuncture practitioner places long, thin needles at particular pre-determined points on the body to reduce pain by causing a change in physical function. The FDA now recognizes acupuncture needles as “medical devices,” an indication that this therapy works for many.
• Massage – In addition to relieving stress, massage can also help reduce pain by prompting relaxation of the muscles. Studies show it helps migraines and other forms of acute and chronic pain.
• TENS Therapy – An acronym for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, TENS therapy involves stimulating certain parts of the body with very mild electrical shocks delivered by electrodes. It is approved by the FDA which means that most insurance companies will cover the cost of the treatment.

Tell Your Pleural Mesothelioma Doctor

Even though your doctor may not be a fan of complementary medicine, it’s still important to let him/her know that you are going to try something else to help you with pain or stress. Most are very open-minded and eager to allow their pleural mesothelioma patients to try things to make them more comfortable.

Some concerns may arise, however, especially if you plan to take herbs and supplements as part of your alternative therapy program. Some of these substances interfere with chemotherapy drugs or other medications and should not be taken. For example, vitamin C taken in large quantities has been known to interfere with some chemotherapy drugs, so it is best to speak with your doctor before taking any supplements.

In addition, a patient should always let the person administering the alternative therapy know that they have cancer. This may impact the way the treatment is administered and is crucial to the safety and well-being of the patient.

If you would like to speak with a Patient Advocate on potential complimentary therapies that have been known to improve a pleural mesothelioma prognosis, please call 1-800-ASBESTOS or simply fill out the form on this page to receive an informative packet in the mail. Our Patient Advocates can provide resources on alternative and complimentary therapies, as well as a list of pleural mesothelioma doctors to consult with on the safety of combining traditional and complimentary therapies.