The 4 Stages of Mesothelioma.....

Stage 4 Mesothelioma Cancer

Stage 4 is the final of four mesothelioma cancer stages. As the most advanced stage of the disease, patients who have been diagnosed with stage 4 mesothelioma have the least treatment options out of all stages combined, and the prognosis is usually short. However, keep in mind that each patient is different, and there lifespans will depend upon the individual patient.

Once a victim enters the final stage, the tumor has spread significantly throughout the body and symptoms of mesothelioma are at an all-time high and much more intense than the previous three stages. At this point, physicians usually look for ways to alleviate symptoms and make life easier for patients instead of ways of removing the cancer.

Stage 4 Symptoms

Severe pain throughout many areas in the body is a common symptom of stage 4 mesothelioma victims. This is due to the tumor spreading throughout different parts of the organs. The most prevalent pain comes from the chest and lungs, or from the abdomen for peritoneal mesothelioma patients.

If a tumor has made its way to the stomach or esophagus, victims will have a difficult time eating, drinking, and swallowing. They may also feel nauseous and vomit frequently.

Stage 4 Treatment

Palliative treatment is most often used when dealing with this stage of mesothelioma, meaning doctors most commonly seek treatment that focuses on ways to alleviate the severe pain instead of ways to remove the tumors.

One specific mesothelioma treatment involves removing the fluid buildup from the lungs, which in turn will help the patient breathe better and not experience as much chest pain as before.

Additionally, chemotherapy helps to shrink the tumors in order to provide pain relief, but most often radiation therapy is used because the procedure is less intrusive. In some instances, chemotherapy and radiation are combined, depending on the patient’s overall health and ability to sustain both treatments.

Unfortunately, most stage 4 victims are not candidates for surgery. The tumors at this point have spread too far, making it extremely difficult to remove them all.

Although this is not always the rule, patients may face far too many risks if they go through surgery. Most advanced stage patients are not physically strong enough to be able to withstand a surgical procedure and their health is usually poor because of the toll of the disease. The physician will be able if the patient is a candidate for surgery.

Stage 4 Prognosis

Even though the prognosis is grim, patients in advanced stages should concentrate on pain management, getting rest, and eating healthy. Life expectancy is typically around 6 months after diagnosis, but each case is different.

Always consult with a mesothelioma physician regarding your own prognosis. Keep in mind that each person is unique, and diet, stress levels, pain tolerance, and other factors play into life longevity.

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