When people think of medical care, they usually think of treatments that are intended to directly treat an illness, such as taking antibiotics to fight an infection. However, this is not the only type of medical care available to patients of all kinds. Many patients with major diseases, such as mesothelioma or other forms of cancer, undergo palliative care in addition to - or instead of - curative treatments.

Palliative care is any kind of treatment designed to treat a patient's symptoms rather than curing the underlying condition. There are many different kinds of palliative treatments available. These treatments can help patients manage pain, nausea, fatigue, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Common Palliative Treatments

Sadly, ongoing pain or discomfort is a fact of life for many cancer patients. Some patients need to try many different treatments for these symptoms before arriving at a medical plan that works well for them. Options to be considered include:

• Medication - There are many different kinds of medications that can relieve pain, nausea, and other common uncomfortable symptoms. For some people, this is the most effective way to minimize the discomfort they experience.



• Tumor reduction - Some cases of cancer are not considered curable. However, these patients may choose to undergo cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation. In these cases, the treatments are intended to shrink tumors and ease patients' discomfort; they are not an attempt to cure the disease.



• Nontraditional medicine - Some patients benefit from undergoing nontraditional treatments in addition to standard medical care. Despite lacking FDA approval, aromatherapy, acupuncture, yoga, and herbal remedies have all helped people manage pain, nausea, and fatigue.



• Emotional care - It is common for cancer patients and their families to suffer from stress, sorrow, anger, and even major depression. Some forms of palliative care focus on these negative emotions rather than the patient's physical symptoms. Support groups, talk therapy, spiritual counseling, and other forms of emotional care can all help people remain mentally and physically well.

The best way to receive the palliative care you need is to clearly communicate your needs and wishes. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, ask your doctor about the treatment options available to you.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that is often caused by asbestos exposure. To learn more about how you can fight for compensation for your cancer treatments after being diagnosed with mesothelioma that was caused by asbestos exposure, contact a mesothelioma attorney.