Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Mesothelioma
Posted by admin on Oct 21, 2009
Those suffering from asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma cancer typically endure a good amount of pain whether it is from the symptoms themselves or the side effects of conventional treatments like mesothelioma chemotherapy or surgery. However, there are a number of complementary treatments that can be used in conjunction with conventional treatments to alleviate some of these issues and possibly even help your body fight the disease.
Many doctors are very skeptical of the benefits of certain alternative/complementary treatments, but acupuncture is the most widely accepted of these types of treatments. Acupuncture is so widely accepted that there are even insurance companies that cover it. Acupuncture employs the use of fine needles into the body’s defined ‘pressure points’ to improve the flow of the four factors in the body, and improve the body’s balance and harmony. Those coping with asbestos-related diseases can use acupuncture to treat symptoms of pain, stress, and anxiety. Many patients with asbestosis who have tried acupuncture say the treatment helps relieve pain and makes breathing much easier.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation – commonly known as TENS therapy – is somewhat similar to acupuncture, in that this treatment stimulates certain defined body locations. However, while acupuncture uses fine needles, TENS therapy stimulates body points with the use of electrodes that deliver very mild electrical shocks. TENS therapy has the potential to help relieve pain in two main ways. First, electrical signals send messages to the brain to produce more endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals produced by the body that produce feelings of euphoria. Additionally, the electrical signals can send messages to the brain that block pain messages.
Dietary supplements can also be used to promote general health, strengthening the immune system and therefore helping to fight off disease. Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are all needed by the body to carry out essential life functions, and supplements can help provide necessary chemicals when diet alone cannot. Many herbs can help treat diseases and conditions, as well as provide symptomatic relief. For example, flaxseed, ginseng, and garlic are all known to reduce blood pressure.
Mesothelioma patients who would like to try alternative or complementary therapies should always consult their doctor first. This is especially true with dietary supplements as it is just as dangerous as taking prescription medications without understanding how they work.
