Like any other cancer, managing mesothelioma can be challenging for both the patient and affected relatives or friends. However, patients can change their lifestyle choices after mesothelioma diagnosis, which can play a significant role in the successful management and treatment of the cancer. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these five lifestyle tips can help with the successful management and treatment of the disease.

Embrace a Social Lifestyle

The entire mesothelioma treatment can take a toll on anybody, leaving you stressed and worn out most of the time. This stress is not good for your recovery and response to the treatment you’re receiving. Even if you’re an introvert, now is the time to be more comfortable opening up and remaining as socially active as possible.

Surround yourself with people you enjoy being around and engage in positive conversations that cheer up your spirit. These small activities help reduce stress and motivate your body to continue the journey.

Exercise

Exercising is one of the most effective lifestyle choices you should embrace during treatment. Since it’s common to feel fatigued and worn out after long sessions of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, exercising helps with restoration and energization. You don’t have to engage in heavy exercises like weight lifting and long runs. A few physical engagements, like short walks, mind exercises, and games, could help you get back on track.

Get Enough Sleep

As an adult, you need at least seven hours of sleep daily to function optimally. However, attaining the minimum healthy sleeping hours can be a big challenge with mesothelioma. Most hours are spent in pain and discomfort, affecting the regular sleeping pattern and optimal relaxation.

If you undergo surgery, it can also affect how you breathe and sleep. Depending on how their surgeries were conducted, some patients might find breathing difficult while sleeping on their stomachs or in certain positions. It’s best to work with your palliative care team to devise a formula that manages your pain and gives you maximum resting hours.

Drink Enough Water

One thing with mesothelioma management is that it brings on board a lot of painkillers. You might have to take painkillers every so often to manage one pain or the other. One of the side effects of these painkillers is a slow gut action leading to constipation.

Dealing with constipation amid everything going on can be tough. Fortunately, increased water intake and exercise can lower the chances of constipation. You can also use over-the-counter remedies anytime you notice unusual bowel movements.

Healthy Foods and Fluid Intake

While eating and drinking healthy foods and drinks is important, it might not be easy for mesothelioma patients to keep up with healthy eating. Patients will often have to force themselves to eat effectively as their appetite and desire might not be there at all.

This is why it’s important to work with dedicated caregivers who will ensure the right food is served and taken at the right time for optimal body functioning. You can also consider taking vitamins and supplements to boost your appetite and keep you more focused on your diet.

Whether you’re reading this post-treatment or at the beginning of your or your loved one’s journey with mesothelioma, these tips will help you manage the disease effectively. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and add these tips for a seamless treatment experience.