Mesothelioma Palliative Care

Mesothelioma is cancer that starts from the linings of the vital organs. Ascites or accumulation of fluid in the layers of the lining and other conditions make the disease very uncomfortable and painful. While no curative therapy is current, a number of measures are in use to manage the symptoms. This is a very specialized form of therapy and it is termed as Palliative Therapy Treatment.

Mesothelioma Palliative Therapy Treatment

Palliative care is administered by specialists and it takes many forms depending on the stage of the disease and the specific symptom to be addressed. Palliative care rests on the following principles:

• to keep the patient as comfortable as possible with alleviation of symptoms that compromise daily functions,
• to offer support to the patient and their family at all times of the treatment,
• to facilitate better quality of life for patients diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses, such as mesothelioma, at different stages of the disease.

Mesothelioma forms part of that group of diseases for which there is no cure even though significant research and a number of mesothelioma clinical trials are underway. As long as the patient lives, medication and therapies are administered. While length of life cannot be assured, some common symptoms that are managed through palliative care are discussed below.

1. Pain management is critical to a patient of mesothelioma as most persons report this symptom. Some measures of pain control that may include pharmacological therapy may be provided; this includes medications prescribed by World Health Organization's Analgesic Ladder, an approach that matches the severity of pain to various types of medication. Medical professionals who specialize in pain management can also be consulted. Medications such as innon-opioid pain relievers, opioid pain relievers, adjuvant medications (for other but related conditions), and topical treatments such as a patch, gel, or cream may be prescribed. Therapeutic exercise and cognitive behavioral techniques such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, imagery, meditation, biofeedback therapy, and distraction may also be suggested, along with alternative approaches like acupuncture and massage therapy used in mesothelioma treatment are all effective.
2. Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is common in patients of pleural mesothelioma. Collection of excess fluid creates pressure on the lungs and affects the ability of the organ to inhale or exhale. This symptom may be treated with medications or oxygen. Changing positions, using relaxation techniques, or improving air circulation also help at times.
3. Fatigue is caused in cancer-related conditions due to the general progression of the disease. Tiredness or low energy levels may also be the effect of medication or the after effects of treatments such as mesothelioma surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Fatigue may manifest itself in the form of lack of interest in activities, exhaustion, apathy, lethargy, lack of sleep, mood swings, and irritability, among others. Appropriate medication, exercise, stress management, and nutrition are advised.
4. Dry Mouth or xerostoma is another symptom that falls in the domain of palliative care. This may be caused by dehydration, depression or anxiety. Medications such as pain relievers, antidepressants, diuretics, or tranquilizers lead to these side effects, as also messothelioma chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatments. For instance, draining excess fluid from the pleural lining may give rise to the feeling of dryness in the mouth or dehydration. Relief is offered in the form of increased intake of fluids, sucking pieces of ice or Vitamin C tablets, chewing on sugarless gum to increase salivation, taking care of oral hygiene, and inhaling humidified air.
5. Loss of appetite may be caused by aggressive treatment and heavy medication. Weight loss may progress to the severe form called cachexia. The reason is not just the unwillingness to eat but also poor absorption of the little food that is eaten; there may also be changes in the patient's metabolism that contribute to the condition. Since nutrition plays a vital role in the patient's well being and recovery from the therapy administered, it is very important to address this problem by eating small quantities more frequently; the small meals should comprise high calorie, high protein foods; and opting for nutritional counseling as available. Medicines to reduce nausea and vomiting and stimulate appetite may also help.
6. Gastrointestinal Problems may arise from the medications being given to the patient or as a side effect of mesothelioma treatments. Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea are some reported gastrointestinal issues that crop up. Advice on how to eat right may be sought from the nutritionist who may even develop special diets that alleviate these symptoms and suit the patient's individual needs.
7. Skin Problems are again the side effects of the medication and the therapies being administered to combat the progress of the disease. Patients complain of dryness, itching, rashes, sores, and ulcers in the digestive system. These create discomfort and may lead to other conditions mentioned above. There is also the heightened risk of infection that creates added complications to the medical syndrome. As a result, it is imperative to address these conditions as quickly as possible. For instance, mineral oil added to warm bath water and application of moisturizers go a long way in reducing dryness. Increasing intake of water to 8-10 glasses per day also helps. Itching and rashes may result from prolonged and neglected dryness. This may be lessened by adding baking soda to cool bath water, or by applying a cool, moist cloth to itchy areas. Harsh laundry detergents may be discontinued and sheets and towels may be changed frequently. It is also important to prevent skin problems from progressing by keeping skin clean and dry and looking out for early signs of pressure sores or ulcers before they fester.
8. Anxiety/Depression is a natural corollary of a life-threatening illness. The patient would be overcome with fear, worry, or apprehension that may manifest in long-term generalized anxiety, or short but severe panic attacks. Stress management techniques and counseling help in coming to terms with the illness; support of family and friends is effective in reducing the fear of isolation and separation; and medication for pain and side effects may be taken. Antidepressant medication may help the patient or even a family member who is experiencing depression due to loss or reduced ability to function, change in family roles due to the condition, limited social and financial support, pain, or other symptoms.

Mesothelioma patients have to undergo life-prolonging therapies that include palliative care. Effective communication and expression of what the patient is feeling is essential in optimizing patient care.