Managing Mesothelioma Pain

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops after a person is exposed to asbestos fibers. This disease primarily develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Often, mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs. Mesothelioma can cause many debilitating symptoms. One of the debilitating symptoms of mesothelioma is severe pain. Managing pain is a crucial aspect of treatment aimed at improving a patient’s quality of life. In this article, we look at what causes mesothelioma pain and how this pain is managed.

What Causes Mesothelioma Pain?

Mesothelioma pain arises due to several factors related to the illness’s progression and impact on the body. The following are the main causes of mesothelioma pain;

Tumor Growth and Pressure

As mesothelioma tumors grow and push against sensitive nerves or organs, they can cause pain. For example, in pleural mesothelioma, tumors in the lining of the lungs can push the lungs, chest wall, and surrounding nerves. This can cause a sharp or stabbing feeling that is usually active and subsides periodically.

Inflammation

The inflammation process can irritate nerves and surrounding tissues, resulting in pain. This usually happens due to the inflammatory chemicals that sensitize nerves and increase sensitivity to pain.

Tumor Metastasis

As mesothelioma progresses, tumors can spread from their original growth site to other areas. This metastatic spread can invade tissues or bones, resulting in localized pain and discomfort. While rare, bone pain in mesothelioma patients is a possibility.

Fluid Buildup

The fluid buildup associated with mesothelioma can also cause pain. Fluid buildup can result in pain during increased activity, eating, and coughing.

How is Mesothelioma Pain Managed?

There are different ways of managing mesothelioma pain. The appropriate treatment is dependent on the root cause of the pain and other factors. It is crucial to speak to a doctor about mesothelioma pain management.

That said, the following are some of the options for managing mesothelioma pain;

Medication

Different types and strengths of medicines may be used to manage mesothelioma pain. For example, a doctor may prescribe Ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage mild pain. When the pain is severe, doctors may recommend strong opioids, such as morphine.

Palliative Surgery

If it is deemed safe, palliative surgery may be used to alleviate pain associated with tumor growth. However, palliative surgery can only relieve pain. It does not treat mesothelioma growth.

Palliative Chemotherapy

Doctors sometimes prescribe a lower dose of chemotherapy than traditional chemotherapy to manage pain. Chemotherapy can help shrink the tumors that cause pain to improve the quality of life.

Palliative Radiation

Radiation therapy is another option that can help manage mesothelioma pain. Radiation therapy is an option for some pleural mesothelioma patients. This option works by shrinking tumors to limit pain.

Complementary Approaches

Complementary approaches like massage therapy and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, exercises, and deep breathing, can complement medication and palliative procedures.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help you live a more comfortable life.