Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the tissue covering most of the internal organs in the human body. There are several different types of mesothelioma, with each type affecting a different set of organs. Over the years, several different kinds of mesothelioma treatment have come into common usage, increasing the chances of surviving the cancer.
When detected early, it is not unusual for chemotherapy to be the first line of defense. Depending on the general health of the individual and the status of the cancer, the amount and frequency of the chemotherapy treatments will vary. The chemicals used in this type of treatment are designed to kill cancer cells. However, those same chemicals also pose a threat to healthy cells. For this reason, the therapist will seek to attack the tumors while creating as little damage to the surrounding tissue as possible.
Radiation therapy is another common mesothelioma treatment. This approach involves the use of concentrated beams of energy that can be trained on a specific location. The precision of radiation therapy, along with the fact that the intensity of the radiation can be adjusted to the needs of the patient, has made it a powerful tool in the fight against many different forms of cancer. In addition to weakening the tumors, radiation treatments can sometimes help with the symptoms associated with the different forms of mesothelioma.
In some cases, surgery is the most effect type of mesothelioma treatment. The surgery is aimed at extracting tumors and cancer cells from the body. Biopsies are performed to verify whether or not the cancer has metastasized, or begun to spread to other parts of the body. It is not unusual for the patient to receive radiation therapy or chemotherapy before and after the surgical removal of the cancer. In some cases, both these therapies are used in tandem, a strategy known as combination therapy.
There are also some forms of alternative medicine that are promoted as effective tools in the process of mesothelioma treatment. However, these methods are not universally accepted in Western medicine, and are not generally considered to be the most judicious means of dealing with mesothelioma. However, some medical professionals do believe these methods can be excellent secondary measures to help patients deal with various symptoms.
Acupuncture, the insertion of needles at carefully identified points along the body, is said to help correct disruptions in the natural flow of energy through the body. Anecdotal evidence indicates that the use of acupuncture can help strengthen the immune system, thus helping the body to fight both the effects of the cancer as well as slow the cancer itself. This form of alternative mesothelioma treatment is sometimes considered important, in that the treatments may help alleviate stress and promote a more balanced mood.
Various types of breathing or relaxation exercises are sometimes included among the different strategies for mesothelioma treatment. Considered safe in most cases, these exercises may help patients who are dealing with cancer that is affecting the function of the lungs or some other section of the respiratory system. Nurses and physical therapists are often trained in relaxation and breathing exercises, and can help patients learn how to use them effectively.
Effectively treating mesothelioma can be a long and difficult task. Many patients find that using several different methods at one time can help to slow the progress of the disease, as well as help minimize pain and other symptoms. Under any circumstances, remaining under the care of a qualified physician is imperative for anyone who wants to increase the chances of becoming a survivor of this form of cancer.
