This is a guest post emailed in by David Haas.

When receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma or other type of cancer, keeping physically fit may be the last thought on a patient’s mind. He or she may be overwhelmed with a number of emotions alternating between sadness and anger. There are treatments to prepare for as well as informing family members and friends and being sure to stay available for their questions and concerns throughout the ordeal.

Doing one’s best to keep a regular exercise schedule has been shown to help the body heal as well as ease the pain associated with cancer and the treatment’s side effects. Whether it takes place in a gym or stays as simple as taking a walk in the neighborhood, both the physical and mental benefits of exercising can make a tremendous difference for the patient.

According to cancer.gov, regular physical activity has been shown to help control weight, maintain healthy bones, joints and muscles, reduce the risk of high blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing heart disease and help promote morale and a better mental outlook. Exercising will increase a person’s energy level and create an overall sense of feeling better as opposed to feeling sick.

If recently diagnosed with cancer, it is almost best to speak with an oncologist about keeping a regular fitness schedule during treatments. As the illness and treatment will begin to take its toll, it is important to stay active, but to also have a balance so that one never overexerts him or her and feels worse in the end. Take into consideration the type of cancer so as not to risk further damage to organs, bones, joints, etc. that may already be stressed due to treatments.

When going through chemotherapy and radiation treatments, the level of fatigue, joint pain and other side effects associated with them such as nausea may interrupt one’s planned exercise schedule as well as make it difficult to keep the regiment up to the desired level. However, any amount of physical activity will prove to be beneficial once the patient able to manage it. Staying in bed can lead to an increased risk of stiff joints and overall weakness. Skin sores may also develop which can be critical to a patient whose immune system is already weakened by chemotherapy.

If in remission, remember to continue with a regular exercise regiment as approved by a doctor to stay healthy and build up the body’s immune system.