Mesothelioma Treatment: FAQs about non-traditional therapies

What will my doctor think if I use non-traditional therapies in addition to my traditional mesothelioma treatment?

Some alternative treatments are considered controversial, and your doctor may not be comfortable with them. He or she may also not have all available information about the effectiveness of any alternative therapy for curing cancer or slowing its growth. In general, doctors only use mesothelioma treatments which they know have a valid scientific basis; they don't want to give false hope and are concerned that some alternatives may be harmful.

More and more doctors are beginning to understand the positive contributions that certain approaches like counseling can have on your well-being. In many cancer centers counseling is now part of traditional treatment for certain patients. Other therapies such as relaxation and massage are often also available to help you feel better and cope with your illness.

Medical professionals now agree that certain types of psychotherapy, relaxation and hypnotherapy are capable of improving quality of life and even reducing side effects of other treatments. This belief is generally accepted around the world, and studies are now being conducted to see how other therapies, such as aromatherapy and acupuncture, may offer significant benefits for people with cancer and other illnesses.

Should I seek complementary or alternative therapy if I have been told I have cancer?

This is a personal decision you must make, but before trying any of these therapies talk with your doctor. If he advises it, certainly seek it out. But even if he does not, you will want to have his support for whatever decisions you make. Most doctors will be glad to support any approaches that help you to cope with your illness, however they may have reservations and special advice about certain alternative mesothelioma therapies.

Traditional treatments have been scientifically proven to have value in treating your disease. But that does not imply that there is no value in alternative and complementary therapies, so don't hesitate to ask your doctor or nurse.

To make sure you don't forget to discuss any important concerns, have a friend or relative help you write out the questions you need answered before you sit down with your doctor. You want to be sure you have a clear understanding of what treatments are available, how they work, and what proof there is of their effectiveness so that you can decide what course of action you will be most comfortable with.

Choosing a complementary therapist