When someone is diagnosed with mesothelioma and a cure through traditional treatment cannot be achieved, it is common for them to turn to complementary, natural, or alternative treatment options. It is even suggested that patients combine their traditional treatment with alternative treatments to get greater relief. There are many kinds of alternative treatments that already exist, and as people begin to study more remedies and therapies, the possibilities continue to expand. Non-traditional forms of treatment are not part of the conventional standards of care that medical professionals provide which is why the U.S Institutes of National Health calls them Complementary or Alternative medicine. There are a few options that are available in the area of alternative treatment for mesothelioma specifically. Here are some of the options available:
Natural Supplements
The FDA, or Food and Drug Administration, does not recognize most vitamin and herbal treatments, but mesothelioma patients may still benefit from them, even if it is just a compliment to standard treatment. Vitamin C, when taken consistently, can help slow down or prevent cancer cell growth and helps to strengthen bone. It also helps your body produce collagen. Another popular alternative treatment is the natural herb Cat’s Claw. This helps to stimulate the immune system when taken consistently.
Natural Therapies and Treatments
In the area of natural treatments, many of the techniques are focused on treating the symptoms of mesothelioma and the side effects caused by its traditional treatments. Treatments like acupuncture, meditation, chiropractic care, and massage therapy help to reduce pain, body tension, headaches, inflammation, and other symptoms. These also reduce stress levels and improve the overall psychological state of the patient. All of this helps with other treatments to increase the quality of life for the patient in their battle with mesothelioma.
Medical Marijuana
This controversial treatment is now available in many states, and while there are limits on its research due to federal law, it is becoming more considered as an effective form of alternative treatment for many patients suffering from cancer. Like with many other alternative treatments, the use of medical marijuana is focused on assisting pain and other side effects of treatment. Many patients of mesothelioma that have taken medical marijuana report positive benefits in their appetite, stress levels, sleep quality, and general pain. The downside or negative effects from medical marijuana include paranoia, low blood pressure, dizziness, difficulty digesting food, red eyes, and hallucinations. With marijuana the side effects vary between patients and you should always check your state laws and consult your doctor before using medical marijuana.
With all of these alternative treatments, the medical community purports consideration when utilizing them as complementary treatments in combination with standard medical care. If you have any questions about utilizing alternative treatments, discuss your options with a medical professional.
Resources
http://www.cancer.org/treatment/findingandpayingfortreatment/findingtreatmentcenters/index
https://www.treatmesothelioma.org/treatment/complementary/
http://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/managing-your-care
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoRgGqiTEVQI6XWI0hdxNpA/videos
