Mesothelioma TreatmentDoctors
Types of Doctors
Find the right doctor to guide you through a solid treatment plan can make a big difference in your overall care:
A diagnosis of mesothelioma is scary. Its difficult to know what to expect, who to believe, and where to turn. Thankfully, there are many doctors and other support personnel who will be on hand to help you put the puzzle together.
While it may seem that youre spending all your days visiting one doctor or another, its comforting to know that theyre readily available to assist you in one way or another and to answer your questions. However, deciphering what each doctor does can be a bit confusing, especially if youve never been seriously ill or spent any time in the hospital. Below, weve compiled a list of doctors and specialists that youll most likely encounter before and after your mesothelioma diagnosis.
General Practitioner
Most people are familiar with the general practitioner. He or she is your regular doctor. For many people, the general practitioner is the trusted doctor they visit when they have a common complaint, like a cold or infection.
Most likely, when you begin to experience disturbing symptoms of asbestos-related disease, youll turn to this doctor for answers. He/she will probably suggest a physical, quiz you as to your symptoms, review your medical history, and offer preliminary findings. In most cases, the general practitioner if they expect something is amiss will order texts or refer you to a specialist.
Oncologist
If your general practitioner suspects you may have cancer based on your work history, symptoms, and other factors he/she will send you to an oncologist. An oncologist is a cancer specialist who will, at this time, take further steps to determine your diagnosis and confirm your general practitioners suspicions.
The first thing the oncologist may do is order certain tests to aid in diagnosis, including x-rays, CT scans, MRIs, a pulmonary (lung) function test, and possibly a biopsy. These tests will help dictate the next step you will take in addressing your illness.
If cancer is confirmed and deemed operable, youll be referred to a surgeon. If surgery is out of the question, your doctor will probably suggest radiation, chemotherapy, or another traditional form of standard cancer treatment.
The oncologist will continue to consult with you and your family members throughout the treatment process and may suggest new courses of action as your disease changes.
Radiologist
If youve ever had an x-ray, youve probably come in contact with a radiologist. This type of doctor administers not only traditional x-rays but also other tests you may encounter during your diagnosis or treatment, such as MRIs or CT scans. Radiologists also administer radiation therapy to cancer patients when this type of treatment is prescribed.
Pulmonary Therapist
Because mesothelioma involves the lungs, patients are often sent to a pulmonary therapist, a lung specialist whose job it is to monitor the effects of the disease of an individuals respiratory system. As mesothelioma worsens, difficulty breathing often becomes an issue and the pulmonary therapist can provide devices and treatments to ease your breathing and lessen your discomfort. Many mesothelioma patients visit their pulmonary therapist often.
Psychologist
Mesothelioma affects not only your physical health but your mental well-being as well. Youll no doubt be bombarded with a plethora of emotions that may be difficult to handle, including denial, guilt, depression, and anxiety. To make the most of your life after your diagnosis and during your treatment, its best to address these issues. A weekly visit to a psychologist can help you. Look for one thats specially trained to deal with those facing a cancer diagnosis.
