Non-traditional treatments

You may decide to choose non-traditional treatments as part of your treatment plan. Talk with your doctor, read about your options (see below), speak to other people with silicosis, discuss with your alternatives with your family and trust your heart. This is your disease and your life. Make sure you have all available information first so you can make informed choices.

Complementary is the term generally used for medical therapies that are used in addition to traditional treatments. Alternative describes therapies that attempt to treat the silicosis itself with approaches that differ from the traditionall treatments.

Traditional and complementary therapies are generally considered useful in promoting feelings of well-being and helping people cope with their illness. Alternative therapies, however, claim to cure or stop the progression of silicosis and therefore cause concern among traditional pulmonary (lung) doctors.

Complementary Treatments

Researchers are always working to discover new ways to treat serious illness. Likewise scientists in a range of disciplines are constantly seeking new ways to help people relieve stress and improve their quality of life. Many of the discoveries for general stress relief can be helpful in coping with your illness.

You might find it helpful to use one or more of these treatments in conjunction with the traditional medical care you are receiving.

New additions to traditional care

Psychotherapy, counseling, relaxation - see Psychological and self-help therapies. These therapies are now commonly accepted as valuable in supplementing traditional treatment.

Additional options include massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, acupuncture, visualization, hypnotherapy, healing, self-help groups, art therapy. See Coping. These therapies are available in many pulmonary care facilities but are not part of conventional treatment. See Choosing a complementary therapist

Less-favored alternative treatments

Specific diet therapies, alternative treatments, megavitamin therapy, 'immuno-augmentative' therapy. Approach these therapies with caution. Be sure to discuss with your doctor because in some circumstances they may be potentially harmful.