Sunday, May 11, 2008

Active symptom control as a treatment for mesothelioma

This means that if you have any symptoms, they are treated with medicines such as painkillers or drugs to reduce or shortness of breath improve appetite. Radiation therapy can reduce the symptoms, if necessary. Chemotherapy can also sometimes used to shrink the mesothelioma and control systems symptoms. There are a number of ways to help symptoms caused by the mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma most common causes shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing. Shortness of breath can sometimes by an accumulation of fluid in the lungs (pleural effusion). Your doctor may be that this liquid drain under a local anaesthetic so that your breathing easier. It may be necessary to remove the liquid on a regular basis.

Talc (Talk), or a particular chemical powder, in the pleural space through a tube. This procedure is called a pleurodesis and causes inflammation of the pleural membranes, which are then glued together to prevent fluid from the building. This can be done by keyhole surgery and is called Video supports thorascopic surgery (drums). Fluid in the abdomen (ascites) can also be removed through a needle inserted under local anaesthetic.

You can also use drugs to help your breathing and pain to control. If at any time you feel that your medicines are not working, let your doctor know as soon as possible so that the dose can be amended or changed medicines. If you have any symptoms that are not easily controlled, you can be sure quickly to a relevant specialists such as a pain relief, physiotherapist or symptom control team. The aim of this type of treatment is for you to reasonably free of symptoms and to make the best possible quality of life.

Other helpful measures include relaxation techniques and physiotherapy, and your family doctor or a local cancer self-help group can provide you with more information about them. You can also find it helpful to get our content to the control of cancer pain, control the symptoms of cancer and complementary therapies. Your doctor will on the various approaches to treatment, and you need time to consider the options. You can then talk it over with family or friends before you firm decisions. If you prefer to talk to someone outside your situation, you may find it helpful to talk to one of the nurses in our Cancer Support Service.

No comments: