Dealing with Symptoms and Diagnosis

A diagnosis of a disease like cancer is always a disheartening and scary proposition. No matter how much you think you've prepared yourself for the worst, the affirmation that you indeed have mesothelioma shakes up your world. You wonder how you'll ever manage to deal with the diagnosis and the specifics that go along with it, like symptoms and treatment, and you'll no doubt have end of life issues and worry about your family. Though there will probably be plenty of people around to help you cope with the specifics of cancer, learning how to deal with the disease is a necessary part of the process of accepting it.

After the Diagnosis

Some people feel relieved after they've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, not because they're glad they have the disease but because they now know just what it is that they will need to deal with for the next several months or years. However, other reactions can occur as well, including denial, anger, fear, blame, and plenty of "why me" questions. Each is a normal reaction to such a diagnosis.

However, allowing any of these reactions to fester isn't a good idea. It's naturally to think the doctor has mistakenly diagnosed you with cancer, for example, but if the reaction continues, it's time to get help. Fear and anxiety are commonplace as well, but gathering as much information as possible about the disease and its treatment will help ease some of those fears.

Many people blame themselves for this disease. "I should have known better than to work with asbestos," some say. "I should have worn a face mask," others lament. The fact remains that you most likely did NOTHING to cause your disease. If you can't get past the blame, speak to a professional who can help with this or any other feelings experienced after diagnosis.

Handling the Symptoms

Simply put, the symptoms of mesothelioma are not pleasant. This aggressive form of cancer attacks your lungs and impedes breathing, causes pain, prompts coughing, and -- in general -- makes it difficult to lead a normal life. You may have to wear oxygen, which will make you feel self-conscious when you're out in public. People may look at you differently.

Understanding the disease and its symptoms is half the battle. Know what to expect and you can better handle what's ahead. Be sure to ask your medical team for help any time symptoms are getting too hard for you to handle. Have pain medication on hand to deal with the especially difficult days and let your caregiver know what they can do to help you deal with the symptoms of the disease. Don't be afraid to tell your doctor if your pain meds are no longer effective. You have a right to be as pain-free as possible.