A mesothelioma diagnosis can feel overwhelming and suffocating. This rare and aggressive form of cancer can seemingly come out of nowhere and leave you wondering what to do next. But even when the long-term outcome feels inevitable, there are ways to improve your quality of life today.
In this article, we’re going to explore several proactive things you can do.
- Work Closely With a Specialized Medical Team
The first step in improving your quality of life with mesothelioma is ensuring that you’re working with a specialized medical team experienced in treating this specific type of cancer. Mesothelioma is different from other cancers, and having doctors who understand its unique characteristics is crucial.
You want an oncologist who has treated mesothelioma patients before and knows the best approaches for managing symptoms, pain relief, and treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. They can offer personalized advice based on your situation, which will help you manage the disease more effectively.
In addition to oncologists, you may also want to include pain management specialists, palliative care experts, and nutritionists in your team. These professionals can help address other aspects of your well-being, such as managing pain, maintaining your strength, and dealing with side effects from treatments.
By surrounding yourself with a team that understands the complexities of mesothelioma, you’re ensuring you get the best care possible, which will help improve your quality of life.
- Focus on Pain and Symptom Management
Mesothelioma can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue. Managing these symptoms is key to maintaining a better quality of life.
Don’t hesitate to communicate openly with your doctors about the level of discomfort or pain you’re experiencing. They can prescribe pain relief medications or recommend other treatments to alleviate symptoms. Palliative care specialists are experts in managing the side effects of cancer and its treatments, helping to reduce pain, nausea, and breathlessness.
In addition to medication, consider alternative therapies like acupuncture, massage therapy, or relaxation techniques. Some patients find relief through these methods, which can help ease pain and provide mental clarity during a difficult time.
It’s important not to overlook your emotional health. Stress and anxiety are common when living with mesothelioma, and therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can be valuable tools in coping with the emotional toll of the disease.
- Stay Active Within Your Limits
Maintaining physical activity can make a big difference in your overall health and mood, even if it’s on a smaller scale than before your diagnosis. Exercise can help reduce fatigue, boost your mood, and improve your lung function. Staying active within your limits can also enhance your immune system, helping you to better cope with treatments.
You don’t need to engage in intense physical activity. In fact, simple exercises like walking, stretching, or light yoga can have a profound impact on your sense of well-being. Speak with your doctor or a physical therapist to develop a plan that works for you, ensuring it aligns with your energy levels and physical abilities.
Even if you only exercise for 10-15 minutes a day, the benefits can be significant. Movement helps reduce stiffness, keeps your muscles engaged, and offers mental relief from the stress of treatments.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet
When you’re undergoing treatment for mesothelioma, maintaining proper nutrition is more important than ever. Chemotherapy, radiation, and other treatments can affect your appetite, but eating a balanced diet will help you maintain your strength and energy levels.
Focus on nutrient-rich foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A nutritionist can help you create a plan that meets your specific needs, especially if you’re experiencing side effects like nausea or difficulty swallowing.
Drinking plenty of water is also essential for staying hydrated, especially if treatments leave you feeling dehydrated or fatigued. Sometimes, small, frequent meals work better than larger ones, helping you manage your appetite while ensuring you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.
Good nutrition will help your body heal faster, improve your immune response, and keep your energy up, all of which contribute to a better quality of life.
- Build a Strong Support Network
Living with mesothelioma can be emotionally taxing, but having a strong support network can make a world of difference. Surround yourself with family, friends, and professionals who can offer encouragement, help with daily tasks, and provide emotional support.
In addition to your loved ones, consider joining a support group for people with mesothelioma or other forms of cancer. Speaking with others who are going through a similar experience can help you feel less isolated and more connected to a community that understands your struggles.
Support groups can offer both emotional comfort and practical advice for managing the challenges that come with the disease. Whether online or in-person, these groups give you a chance to share experiences, learn new coping strategies, and simply talk to others who are walking a similar path.
Live Your Best Life Today
Life is full of peaks and valleys. And if we know one thing for certain, it’s that we’ll all experience health issues (if we live long enough). While a mesothelioma diagnosis can be tough to process, it doesn’t have to mean you live the rest of your life in pain and discomfort.
By focusing on practical ways to improve your quality of life, you can be happy and comfortable for months or years to come.
