Alternative therapies for asbestosis are those which are not commonly recommended by the medical profession but have proven to give patients relief from pain and other symptoms of the disease. These are purely palliative measures and do not offer a cure for the disease.

The Options

Many asbestosis patients turn to an ancient Chinese remedy known as acupuncture. The popularity of acupuncture has risen over the last 20-30 years and many people use it to relieve not only pain but also stress and anxiety. Open-minded doctors, especially oncologists, have begun to recommend acupuncture for cancer patients with some degree of regularity. Specialists who practice the art of acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into the skin at certain trigger points on the body, know where to place the needles to get the optimal result. Some asbestosis patients claim that their pain is reduced and their breathing improved after treatments. Because the treatments carry little or no risk, they can be performed as often as needed, however, most medical insurance policies will not pay for this type of therapy.

Other asbestosis victims turn to homeopathic drugs, such as herbs and supplements, for relief from the symptoms of asbestosis. These are usually suggested by a doctor or nutritionist who deals in holistic medicine - medicine that treats the whole body. While these drugs and supplements are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), many patients note that they've seen excellent results by following a regimen of particular homeopathic remedies and, furthermore, these products cause few side effects, making them safe to consume. However, if you are taking prescribed drugs, let your doctor know what herbs or supplements you're considering. They may interfere in some way with bronchodilators, steroids, or any other medications often suggested for asbestosis patients.

Massage is also a viable option for controlling pain and easing breathing and some studies show that it may also boost a body's immune function, which can be quite important for asbestosis patients. Similarly, meditation is sometimes used to address the pain and anxiety caused by the disease. Should you decide to try these alternative therapies, be sure to seek out a properly-trained profession before you commit to the treatment.

Obviously, treatments that work for some do not work for others. If you decide to try any of these alternative therapies, it may take a little while to find the one or two that work best for you. As was stated previously, medical insurance usually does not pay for these treatments so the patient should be prepared to foot the bill for these therapies.