FAQs

What will my doctor think of using alternative therapies?

Some alternative treatments are considered controversial, and your doctor may not be comfortable with any of them. He or she may also not have all available information about the effectiveness of any alternative therapy for curing silicosis. In general, doctors use only treatments for which they know of valid scientific evidence; they don't want to give false hope and are concerned that some alternatives may be harmful. Sometimes silicosis patients are misled by unrealistic promises. Remember, no one should claim to be able to cure silicosis.

More and more doctors are beginning to understand the positive contributions that certain approaches like counseling can have on your well-being. In many pulmonary treatment centers counseling is now part of conventional treatment for some patients. Other therapies such as relaxation and massage are often also available to help you feel better as you cope with your illness.

Medical professionals now agree that certain types of psychotherapy, relaxation and hypnotherapy are capable of improving quality of life and even reducing some of the side effects of other treatments. This is generally accepted around the world, and studies are now being conducted to see how yet other therapies such as aromatherapy may also offer significant benefits to those with silicosis.

Should I seek complementary or alternative therapy if I have been told I have silicosis?

This is a personal decision you must make, but before trying any of these treatments, talk to your doctor. If he advises it, certainly seek it out. But even if he does not, you will want to have his support for whatever decisions you make. Most doctors will support any approaches that help you to cope with your illness, however they may have reservations and special advice about certain alternative therapies.

Traditional treatments have been scientifically proven to have value in treating your disease. But that does not imply that there is no value in alternative and complementary therapies, so don't hesitate to ask your doctor or nurse.

To make sure you don't forget to discuss any important concerns, have a friend or relative help you write out your questions before you sit down with your doctor. You want to be sure you have a clear understanding of what's available, how it works, and what proof there is of its effectiveness so that you can decide.

Choosing a complementary therapist