If the word "cancer" is mentioned in a general conversation, it typically evokes a fearful reaction. Until you actually hear the phrase "you have cancer" yourself from a physician, can you even begin to comprehend the emotional devastation that follows the diagnosis. Whether is is operable, treatable or even minor, a cancer diagnosis means big changes in your life. The purpose of this article is to serve as a guide through those changes, with the goal of making them a bit easier to handle.
Cancer can be a trying time, both for the person and the family. There are a number of cancer treatments in existence, so it's best to talk to a doctor.
When you are diagnosed with cancer, quitting smoking should be high on your agenda. Some cancer patients mistakenly reason that there is no point in quitting since they're already sick. By continuing to introduce into the body the carcinogens found in the cigarettes, you are less likely to fully recover.
Voice your thoughts and opinions and stand your ground when required. There are a lot of people who think they cancer is contagious and that they can actually catch something from you. It may be useful to plan your answers to these types of questions in advance. It can help with the perception that others have of you and your condition during your treatment plan.
Colon Cancer
Educate yourself on the symptoms of specific types of cancer, such as colon cancer, in order to catch them early. Losing weight unexpectedly, bloody stools, thinning stools and cramping all are symptoms of colon cancer. If you have any of these symptoms, get checked out by your doctor.
Although screening for breast cancer can cause some slight discomfort, don't let this keep you from being screened. Just remember, it is only temporary, it will be over very quickly. The result could be the awareness of cancer that could save both your life and your breasts. That is why it is important not to let your fears get in the way from you getting a screening.
Most people are aware that fish, such as wild salmon, is a healthy food choice. But are you aware that salmon has low levels of mercury and omega-3 fatty acids that can help in the prevention of cancer? Eating it a few times per week will help you to keep cancer at bay and enjoy a great meal at the same time.
Try participating in treatments that will fight cancer instead of just allowing it to happen. Be an active participant in your treatment. This will not help you to get well.
Try to get your friend or family member to someone that they are able to talk to about their condition. You can use the Internet to find people who can meet or support groups. This helps the cancer sufferer get more emotional outlets.
If you built a playset or deck prior to 2005, be sure to spray sealant on it. Sealing these structures will protect your family from the arsenic based application that was used on the wood of items built before this time.
Be totally honest with your friends and family about your cancer. You should avoid pushing people away by seeming strong. Cancer is a scary diagnosis, and you will need a strong support system while undergoing treatment. Open lines of communication build sound bonds that are healthy and beneficial to all involved.
Make sure your skin is always covered when you are outside in the sunlight, so as to reduce your chances of getting melanomas, which are also known as skin cancer. The sun doesn't let up on the UV rays, and the melanoma that can result from getting too much sun can kill you if you don't get treatment. It is recommended that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, especially if your skin is fair. Fair skin takes sun damage more easily.
Don't go out in direct sunlight unprotected during late morning and early afternoon. Have your fun in the sun outside of these peak hours to drastically minimize your chances of serious, potentially cancerous, sun damage.
The rules of sleep have not changed: get, as a minimum, eight hours a night. You can become very tired and stressed when you are going through cancer treatments. If you get enough sleep, it will help you heal faster, and give you more energy to meet the demands of the day. If it becomes necessary, keep a schedule where you could rest during the day.
During the time that you're receiving treatment for cancer, you might also benefit from complementary therapies that you can continue to use for long afterwards. Yoga, massage and acupuncture procedures can all benefit your body and mind while fighting cancer. Aromatherapy can work wonders, too. These activities can provide much needed relaxation and help to reduce stress.
There isn't a healthy alcohol consumption when you have or are trying to prevent cancer. Even a small amount of alcohol can increase your risk of developing several kinds of cancers. This includes throat, esophagus, and mouth cancer. If you do drink alcohol, keep it to a minimum.
Healthy Lifestyle
Keeping a healthy lifestyle, even after cancer diagnosis, is a sound first step in coping. A healthy lifestyle includes eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest and exercising at least three days a week. By staying in shape, you will have more energy to fight cancer, and you can then bounce back from treatments more quickly.
There are always things you can do to improve the quality of your life, regardless of what stage and type of cancer you are suffering from. What you have learned in this article should help to put your mind at ease and help you to face cancer with confidence, knowledge and emotional strength.