Participating in Respiratory Therapies
One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is difficulty breathing, which is why patients often like to participate in respiratory therapies. There are specific breathing techniques that can improve lung function and make it easier to breathe for someone combating a lung conditions. Not only can the techniques teach someone to breathe more efficiently and provide a boost in energy levels, but they also can alleviate some of the symptoms, such as coughing and chest pain.
Pleural mesothelioma, which accounts for about 75 percent of the cases of mesothelioma, develops on the lining of the lungs. As tumors grow and cause inflammation, the lungs have less room to expand and patients can feel their breathing being restricted. Pulmonary rehabilitation, a broad program that improves the well-being of people with breathing problems, can help with the physical and emotional stress a patient can experience after contracting the disease.
Implementing a combination of pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing techniques into a treatment plan can be one of the best choices a mesothelioma patient can make. It is often recommended by doctors following any pulmonary-related diagnosis. While some mesothelioma patients may have a hard time implementing certain breathing techniques, the psychological aspects of participating in a pulmonary rehabilitation program can still be beneficial.
Interested in learning about more options to help with breathing?
There are a variety of treatments available to mesothelioma patients trying to reduce symptoms and improve their quality of life. Complete the form on the right to receive a free informational packet about these treatments.
Breathing Techniques
Some breathing techniques can help control respiratory rate and manage breathing patterns. Others help open up airways so breathing becomes more comfortable. If a patient says not enough air is getting into the lungs, consider some of the following exercises:
- Pursed-Lip Breathing: This technique slows down breathing and makes it feel as if more air is getting into the lungs during each breath. The patient breathes in through the nose and holds his breath for a few seconds. With lips partially open, he breathes out slowly until most of the air is released.
- Abdominal/Diaphragmatic Breathing: This breathing exercise helps relax the body and slow down breathing. To start, lie down on your back in a comfortable position. Rest one hand on your stomach and the other hand on your chest. Concentrate on breathing through your nose while using your abdominal muscles. The hand on your stomach will rise when you breathe in and fall as you exhale. Deep the hand on your chest still while breathing.
- Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT): ACBT helps release secretions and improves the ability of air to get to the lungs. This technique involves the "huff" cough – taking a deep breath and exhaling it forcefully. The cycle is repeated until secretions come out. The cough will become dry.
With continued use of breathing techniques, patients can rehabilitate some lung function. Mesothelioma patients in particular can benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation, which is a multimodal treatment a approach that offers various ongoing therapies to address each patient's unique set of symptoms and challenges. A patient can improve their outlook through counseling, correct nutritional deficiencies with a nutritionist, increase exercise performance through training, and conserve energy.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation is one of the best treatment options for patients battling a chronic respiratory illness like mesothelioma or asbestosis. An interdisciplinary team of specialists often recommends a range of therapies and treatments based on the needs of the patient.. Therapies can include breathing techniques, exercise and educating the patient on ways to conserve energy.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is designed to help patients return to an active lifestyle and reduce symptoms. In addition to these two goals, the treatment is meant to:
- Make it easier to breathe
- Create a positive outlook
- Correct nutritional deficiencies
- Increase exercise performance
- Teach you how to use energy efficiently
- Improve survival and reduce health costs
- Provide emotional support
- Reduce hospital visits
Because there is no definite cure for mesothelioma, improving the quality of a patient's life is a central part of treatment. Pulmonary rehabilitation most often involves educating patients and families about exercise training and outcome assessment to monitor the results. Talk to your doctor to see if pulmonary rehabilitation is an option for you.
Want to Learn More About Your Treatment Options?
Here at the Mesothelioma Center, our focus is to make sure patients fully understand the treatment and support options available to them. If you would like to learn more about how certain treatments can prolong life expectancy and improve your quality of life, speak to one of our Patient Advocates by calling (800) 615-2270.
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Last Modified Wednesday, May 16th, 2012 | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy |
The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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