Receiving a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma is a heartbreaking and difficult experience for the patient as well as for family and loved ones. It can feel shocking, as if your whole world has been turned upside down. Many feel anger, loss of control, and overwhelm when first told they have a diagnosis of terminal mesothelioma cancer.
Mesothelioma, primarily linked to exposure to asbestos, is a cancer in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or chest cavity. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its durability, fire, heat and erosion resistance, and insulating properties. In addition to these properties and the fact that asbestos was easily accessible and very affordable, it was commonly added to many commercial, manufacturing and industrial materials. Many people were and continue to be exposed both through their occupations and through environmental pollution.
When asbestos is released into the air, it can be inhaled or ingested, causing serious lung diseases and cancers. When asbestos becomes lodged in the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen, mesothelioma develops and currently there is no known cure. Because of a long latency period between time of first exposure and development of the cancer, mesothelioma often is not diagnosed until twenty to fifty years after first exposure.
Despite improvement in diagnostic methods and increased knowledge about mesothelioma, symptoms are difficult to diagnose and often the terminal cancer is not diagnosed until it has reached advanced stages. Most patients diagnosed with mesothelioma have a short life expectancy, although research into new drugs and treatments holds promise of lengthening survival times and quality of life.
For anyone diagnosed with mesothelioma, as well as their loved ones, facing a diagnosis of terminal mesothelioma can be daunting and heartbreaking. Initially, many will have feelings of shock, anger, sadness, and denial. Some will eventually come to terms with the fact they have a terminal cancer, while others will resist accepting the reality of their diagnosis. A variety of emotions and questions will arise as end of life concerns are explored and discussed.
There are some things that can help to cope better and feel some sense of control during the time of initial diagnosis.
1. Inform yourself: learn as much as possible about mesothelioma, the causes, what type and which stage you have been diagnosed with. Also find out as much as possible about standard, frontline treatments as well as alternative therapies and latest drug research. If you are overwhelmed, resigned, or too upset, ask for a loved one to help you research your illness. Explore the possibility of participating in a clinical trial, which accepts eligible patients and tries new treatment methods with the aim of extending survival time and improving quality of life. Ask your mesothelioma specialist about any clinical trials in the area and about your eligibility to join.
2. Get Information: Find out as much as possible about mesothelioma, including information about stages, types, and causes. Inform yourself about standard treatments but also research new and alternative treatments and drug therapies. Ask for a support person to help you look into all the options if you are unable. If eligible, consider participating in a clinical trial which could extend your survival time and improve overall quality of life. To find out if there are any clinical trials suited for you, ask your mesothelioma oncologist.
3. Know your legal and medical rights: Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage and health benefits to find out which medical costs are covered. To further offset the cost of lost wages and medical treatments, consult with an experienced mesothelioma attorney who specializes in asbestos lawsuits. Manufacturers and employers knew that asbestos was a risk to health as early as before the 1960′s and yet did nothing to neither warn nor protect workers from exposure and potential illness. A mesothelioma lawyer is an expert who has all the resources to help identify the source of your exposure and file a lawsuit on your behalf that maximizes your chance of financial recovery.
4. Join a local or online support group: In some areas, hospitals have support groups that meet at their facility. There are also national and on-line support groups that can provide many helpful resources. Talking with others who are going through the same experience can help you communicate any concerns and gain information.
5. Take good care of yourself: Spending time with loved ones and family members can help during when times get tough. Talking about past times together, good and bad, can create healing and connection. Sharing about current events as well as good times of the past can help lighten ones mood and decrease pain and anxiety.
Most patients and their families will realize that even with new treatments and drug therapies, mesothelioma can not be cured although life can be extended and quality of life can be improved. Taking steps like those listed above can help mesothelioma patients and their loved ones realize that despite not being able to change the diagnosis, they do have some choice about how to move forward in treating the illness that can make a difference.
For more information, call toll free 1-800-440-4262.
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