5 of Staying Healthy When Living With Mesothelioma

A mesothelioma is a rare, asbestos-related cancer which usually develops in the protective lining of the lungs or abdomen.

In order to develop, the mesothelioma need decades. However, once it develops it is aggressive and debilitating.

According to Ephraim Zagelbaum, a healthcare executive and a CEO of Personal Healthcare, due to the long-latency period, mesothelioma usually affects people which are 60+ years old.

In Zagelbaum’s opinion, compared to younger patients, seniors with mesothelioma typically have a poorer prognosis.

Another factor that makes it more difficult deal and live with mesothelioma are the common health problems such as chronic conditions, sensory impairments, cognitive health issues, etc.

Due to the fact that as the body ages, the immune system becomes weaker, the common mesothelioma symptoms, such as respiratory complications, chest pain and muscle weakness, can intensify.

Zagelbaum also points out that it is from greater importance to to stay as healthy as possible when living with mesothelioma.

Besides from the treatments, he points out some useful tips for increasing survival rates and improve overall quality of life.

1. Exercise

Although this may be a challenge for most seniors, much more for those having a respiratory cancer, exercising is essential to your overall health. 

Cancer treatments leave patients with muscle weakness, a poor appetite and fatigue, which makes it impossible for them to do high-impact exercises, such as long-distance running or heavy weightlifting. However, low-impact exercises are highly recommendable, because they can lessen fatigue and improve cardio-respiratory fitness, and also can improve your mood and outlook on life. These exercises include yoga, tai chi or swimming.

2. Nutrition

The experienced healthcare executive, Zagelbaum, claims that a well-balanced diet increases muscle mass and strength, as well as improve mood, sleep and our immune system.

In order to fuel function, the body needs quality nutrition. The best choice is eating whole foods, such as fish, vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Unalike processed foods, which are depleting, whole foods are energizing.

A dietitian nutrition expert can help you navigate the challenging process of deciding the best nutrition plan for you.

3. Caregiver Support

After diagnosis, the day-to-day living could be tough. Persons could become unable to do many of the things they did before. So, a useful recommendation from Zagelbaum is to hire a senior care professional. These professionals can assist you with everyday tasks.

4. Staying Positive

In Zagelbaum’s opinion, staying positive can actually have a positive impact on your cancer prognosis. The way treatments are handled can be improved by a positive and optimistic attitude towards the situation. Staying positive isn’t easy. However the support that friends and family could provide can make it easier.

5. Maintain Your Lifestyle

In Zagelbaum’s opinion, the best way to keep a positive attitude is to continue doing the things you enjoy in life. Maintaining hobbies and other activities that make you happy can be really beneficial.

Conclusion

When living with mesothelioma, treatments and clinical trials are not the only way of staying healthy. These five tips given by Ephraim Zagelbaum can be almost equally beneficial.

For more information about finding the right caregiver for you, contact Zagelbaum through LinkedIn.