A diagnosis of mesothelioma will bring up a lot questions. Both the patient and their family members will want and need to know a variety of information about the disease and what its presence means to their future. Don't be afraid to ask questions. A knowledgeable oncologist will be able to answer most of them and they can refer you to someone who will provide you with accurate information about treatment and more.

The following questions are some you may want to ask:

How and why did I develop mesothelioma? The doctor can help you understand the nature of the disease and how it develops. They also might be able to help you determine where you were exposed to asbestos.
How advanced is the disease? Doctors can provide you with information in regards to the stage of your cancer. While most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed during Stage 3 or 4, early detection tests are resulting in earlier diagnosis.
Why didn't I previously know I had mesothelioma? Most people are shocked when they are diagnosed with mesothelioma since it's not typically detected until it is fairly advanced. Your doctor can explain how the disease manifests itself and what you should expect for the future.
What type of mesothelioma do I have? There are three main types of mesothelioma: pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal.
What are my treatment options? Every mesothelioma case is different. A good oncologist who is well-versed in the treatment of the disease will devise the best possible plan for you. Make sure to ask about all available options.
Are there any clinical trials I can try? There are many clinical trials being conducted involving patients with mesothelioma. Not every one will be right for you, but your doctor can determine which ones you qualify for.
How about alternative treatments? More and more doctors are recognizing the advantages of experimenting with alternative treatments for cancers such as mesothelioma. This may involve meditation, acupuncture, massage, or hypnosis. If your doctor does not recommend these treatments, you may want to research them on your own, but be sure to inform your doctor before trying any additional treatments.
Can I continue with my everyday routines? Some mesothelioma patients can continue working and performing everyday duties and chores throughout their treatments. However, some treatments can greatly affect a patient's quality of life. A doctor can help you determine which options are best for your circumstances.
What is my prognosis? This is the question most patients are afraid to ask, but asking allows you to properly plan your future. While the prognosis for most mesothelioma patients used to be a year or less, new and improved treatments are extending the life expectancy of mesothelioma patients worldwide.

Doctor Match Program

One of the most important factors in improving a mesothelioma patient's life expectancy is their selection of doctor and treatment facility. Asbestos.com's Doctor Match Program is now helping patients get matched with top mesothelioma specialists around the country. If you wish to take advantage of this free service please call us at (800) 549-0544 or click here visit our doctor match page.

Sources:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/mesothelioma

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