Anorexia is experienced by many of the mesothelioma patients, because of the cancer itself and also as a symptom of mesothelioma treatment, such as chemotherapy drugs (like alimta) or radiation therapy. Silicate minerals also pose a risk. Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by the loss of appetite or intentional avoidance of food. It is also called “cancer anorexia” because almost every terminal stage cancer patient experiences it. Mesothelioma cancer can also cause other eating disorders, like bulimia.
Mesothelioma anorexia
Symptoms of asbestos anorexia include loss of appetite or the refusal to eat. This is caused to the cancer patient if he/she experiences several of the following:
- fatigue
- chronic pain
- inflammation of the esophagus (causes pain when swallowing)
- dry mouth
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea or constipation
- depression
- shortness of breath (fear of choking with food occurs)
Asbestos exposure to asbestos fibers or dust can cause a lot of disorders, such as asbestosis, which can cause further conditions, such as anorexia. People that know they have asbestos products near or on their house should consider asbestos removal. If left untreated, anorexia can develop into anorexia nervosa, a very serious health issue that can cause death. During the process of anorexia patients may experience what is known as the wasting syndrome, in which a person loses 10 percent or more of its' body weight. These are just a few of the effects of anorexia on a person.
How to help someone with anorexia caused by mesothelioma
Anorexia is mostly a psychological problem, which means that a treatment for it can be found at a psychology office. The fact that the patient knows he/she is infected with mesothelioma and tumors are spreading from the lining of the chest wall to the heart causes him/she to be depressed. Clinical trials may also be very stressful for a patient. It would be very wise to seek advice for your loved ones' problem, and help him/her overcome anorexia. Ask a doctor to prescribe pills and medication for anorexia, and make sure that the anorexic person has an IV close, in order to provide him/her with all the basic minerals and vitamins.
Contact us for further help
If a loved one has trouble eating or avoids food on purpose, and you've noticed that he/she had become anorexic, please contact asbestosis and mesothelioma centers, absolutely free, and receive valuable information on what can be done to avoid this eating disorder and stop the person from dying because of anorexia.
