- Learn all you can about Mesothelioma. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions about Mesothelioma. There are no “stupid questions.” Inquire about recommended treatments, including the nature of surgery, possible side effects of chemotherapy, and availability of clinical trials. The more you know, the more you can be an active partner in your treatment. You can also conduct your own research on the Internet or at your local library. There is a wealth of information available on Mesothelioma.
- Maintain a support network. A support system can help you cope with anxiety and physical and emotional pain. Your support network may include family and friends, the healthcare community, formal support organizations, and informal e-mail groups. Although you may have to curtail some of your activities, it is important to stay as involved with others as you can. Staying in contact with friends and keeping up with events, hobbies, and the world around you are critical tools in living with Mesothelioma.
- Take care of yourself. Good nutrition, moderate exercise, and getting adequate rest can help combat the stress and fatigue associated with Mesothelioma.
- Manage the pain. Pain management is one of the most important aspects of Mesothelioma care. The type of pain treatment that relies on drugs is called pharmacological therapy . Non-pharmacological therapies include exercise; behavioral techniques such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, imagery, meditation, biofeedback therapy, and distraction; acupuncture; and massage therapy. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies can be used together to help you maintain your normal routine.
- Maintain your weight. Weight loss, a frequent side effect of Mesothelioma and its treatment, can be managed by eating smaller, more frequent meals; by eating high calorie, high protein foods; through nutritional counseling; and by taking medications to stimulate your appetite and help prevent nausea and vomiting.
- Treat anxiety and depression. Treatments to control anxiety include stress management techniques, counseling, support from family and friends, and control of pain and side effects through medication. Depression, which can affect family members as well as the patients themselves, can be treated with antidepressant medications, support and counseling, pain management, and stress management.
- Seek legal counsel. Talk to an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation to determine whether you may have legal recourse to recover for your injuries. Research has shown that the asbestos industry was aware of the potential dangers from the use of its products for many years but failed to warn employers and employees of the risks. The manufacturers may be held liable for the damages experienced by injured workers. Your lawyer can advise you as to whether you may have a valid claim for damages to offset your financial losses due to medical costs and missed work and to compensate you for your pain and suffering.
For more information or to speak with an experienced Newark, New Jersey asbestos and mesothelioma lawyer, contact Keefe Bartels .