Recently I received this interesting article from Asbestos.com about the benefits of…

Complementary Therapy during Conventional Mesothelioma Treatment

Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of a rare cancer known as malignant pleural mesothelioma. This cancer is most often diagnosed in its later stages and is very difficult to treat effectively.

Many of the conventional treatments of mesothelioma are similar to that of most cancers. But treatments like surgery and chemotherapy can cause the patient to be in pain as well as experience many other negative side effects.

There are a number of complementary therapies that can ease these negative side effects as well as the effects of mesothelioma symptoms.

These types of treatment options can’t cure asbestos-related illnesses, but can certainly help patients live more comfortably by providing relief from pain and stress. Complementary therapists take a Holistic Health care approach based on the principles of Natural Healing.

ACUPUNCTURE

One of the most widely-accepted complementary therapies is acupuncture. In fact, it is so accepted that some insurance companies even cover acupuncture treatment. The foundational theory of acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (also known as TCM) and involves treating the entire body rather than just the affected organ or area.

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, such as asbestosis and mesothelioma, can use acupuncture to treat symptoms of pain, stress, and anxiety.

TENS therapy

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (known as TENS therapy) is fairly 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. There are few side effects to this treatment and many TENS therapy professionals will come to you as this can easily be performed in your own home.

AROMATHERAPY AND MASSAGE

Some people find relief in aromatherapy (which is often used in combination with massage therapy). Aromatherapy starts with essential oils, which can be used alone for a single scent or combined with others. Essential oils are highly concentrated oils from various plants.

ESSENTIAL OILS

The simple inhalation of essential oils brings both physical and mental benefits as it can provide symptomatic relief and improve general wellbeing. Those suffering from serious medical conditions should only use aromatherapy under the care of a trained professional, as combining the wrong essential oils can produce adverse side effects or medical problems.

It is important to consult your doctor before proceeding with any type of complementary therapy as they can affect everyone differently depending on your situation.

Source: Asbestos.com

Author: Liz Knox