Boosting Your Immunity When Fighting Mesothelioma

Overcoming a disease is never easy, especially when you’re suffering from a chronic ailment like cancer. However, one should never lose hope, as there are several ways in which you can further aid your ongoing treatment to ensure a fast recovery.  

You must be aware that our immune system defends our bodies from various cancers and other chronic diseases daily. In this fight, lymphocytes (WBCs) play a key role since they either eliminate cancerous ones before they are harmful or stop them from spreading and replicating.

The interleukins and interferon chemicals produced by cells in the immune system kill cancer cells in the bloodstream. In addition, WBCS produce antibodies that attach to cancer cells, causing them to die (apoptosis).

Therefore, no matter which type of cancer you’re suffering from, you can overcome it if you’ve got a strong immune system. Mesothelioma, for example, is a rare and deadly cancer. It occurs in the mesothelium, a protective layer around the lungs and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers over a long period. In most cases, malignant mesothelioma patients have a life expectancy of 12-20 months. Nevertheless, the patient’s treatment period may be extended through the design of a personalized treatment plan and the provision of chemotherapy and radiation.

As we discussed earlier, it can combat mesothelioma by improving immunity. You can boost your immunity to fight this deadly disease in different ways. Nowadays, several support groups are present over the internet, such as Mesothelioma Hope, where you can find all the relevant information for fighting it in one place. 

The Effects of Mesothelioma Treatment on Immunity

Our immune system cannot attack mesothelioma cells since they are mutated healthy cells. However, when cancer cells are present, a person’s immune system recognizes them. Unfortunately, some types of mesothelioma are so aggressive that our bodies cannot respond to them.

Despite the body’s best efforts, cancer cells can suppress the immune system’s response or stimulate it to grow. Nevertheless, mesothelioma patients’ immune systems still play an integral role in fighting the disease.

Various mesothelioma treatments can weaken both acquired and innate immune systems, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted anti-cancer drugs, and steroids.

A treatment’s effect on immune function usually reduces the availability of leukocytes in the body. Therefore, lymphocytes cannot be produced in bones. Moreover, chemotherapy can temporarily lower the body’s neutrophil count (natural defense cells). Aside from damaging hairs that remove infectious mucus from the body, radiation may also damage follicles.

A good treatment outcome depends on the outcome of the Mesothelioma treatment to strengthen the body’s immunity. After treatment, weakened immunity can make mesothelioma patients more susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. A weak immune system can make treatment less effective if these infections are present.

Therefore, mesothelioma patients must boost their immunity. With this being said, let’s look at different ways mesothelioma patients can boost their immunity.

How to Boost Your Immune System

As part of your prescribed mesothelioma treatment, you can strengthen your immune system in several ways:

Stress Reduction

As difficult as it may be, try as much as you can to reduce your stress after receiving a diagnosis. It is difficult for your immune system to function properly under stress. Prolonged levels of stress hormones can trigger your body’s inflammatory response. A chronic inflammatory condition can weaken immunity and make it less effective. Your immune system is also suppressed by stress. Therefore, despite the ongoing difficulties that patients are facing while getting treatment, having a stress-free environment is essential.

Regular Sleep 

You’ll be amazed how improving sleep quality can significantly impact your immune system. A healthy immune system relies on sleep for support. A good night’s sleep promotes strong innate and adaptive immunity, optimal vaccine response, and fewer allergic reactions. Make sure you get enough sleep and sleep at least seven hours a night. A healthy immune system requires rest to function properly, so that sleep deprivation can strain it.

Eat Healthily 

There are many reasons for living, but the food is one of them. It is not just necessary for survival but also a symbol of care and good times spent with family and friends. Whether you have mesothelioma or care for someone who has mesothelioma, planning meals with these issues in mind is beneficial. Ensure you eat a balanced diet of fresh fruit, greens, and proteins, and limit your intake of processed and sweet foods.

Active Lifestyle

Engage in moderate exercise every day for 40 to 60 minutes. As a result of exercise, powerful hormones are produced, and the immune system is significantly improved. Physical activity may also help clear the airways and lungs of bacteria. Doing this may reduce your chances of getting a cold, flu, or other illness. In addition, exercise results from a change in antibody levels and neutrophils (WBC). 

Supplement Your Nutrition 

You can’t stress enough the importance of good nutrition for anyone with mesothelioma, whether they have chosen aggressive treatment or palliative care. Both cases may adversely affect appetite. However, eating well may prevent weight loss or allow weight to be regained. Furthermore, a good diet can help the body fight infection or combat the side effects of treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. 

Balanced diets contain a variety of nutrients that your body needs to function properly. Patients should work with their doctors or nutritionists to set specific nutritional goals. Good nutrition is critical for preventing or reversing nutritional deficiencies, minimizing the side effects of aggressive treatments, and maximizing the quality of life for anyone suffering from a serious illness.

In a Nutshell

We know that treating mesothelioma or any other form of cancer can be quite stressful for the patients and the caregivers. However, instead of getting overwhelmed by it, incorporate these immunity bloating tips to ensure a safe and fast recovery.