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Living with Cancer › Coping with cancer
Coping with cancer
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- Has it been fully determined that I have cancer?
- How will we know if my treatment is working?
- How long should I expect treatment to last?
- How will all of this affect my life?
- What kind of costs can I expect to incur?
Make sure you take the time to get all of your questions answered. Your doctor is there to help you adjust to the changes associated with being diagnosed with cancer.
Learn how to work w
ith the people involved with your care
Sharing information about yourself can help your healthcare team plan your care. Let them know if things seem unclear or confusing to you. Find out who to call if something happens between visits. By asking what to expect in advance, you may feel better prepared to cope with any issues.
Questions to ask about treatment:
- What are the positive and negative aspects about my particular treatment?
- What are the names of my prescription drugs?
- How often will I need a blood test?
- What happens if I miss a treatment?
- What are some of the side effects associated with my treatment?
- Is there anything that I cannot eat or drink?
- Is there anything that I must absolutely eat or drink?
Often, doctors recommend that patients bring a family member or friend to his/her appointments and consultations. The reason for this is because it is important for patients to have someone else to rely on as far as asking questions, obtaining pertinent information, and remembering advice is concerned.
What to expect when managing pain
If you feel pain at any point during the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, you should tell your doctor or nurse immediately. Treating pain as soon as possible can ensure a more effective relief.
Pain, unfortunately, can be a common side effect of cancer or cancer treatments. Most of the time, when patients feel pain associated with cancer, doctors find a tumor is pressing itself against a bone, nerve, or organ, and they take the necessary steps to alleviate that pain for the patient.
Headaches, muscle aches and spasms, and even arthritis, are sometimes seen in cancer patients. Make sure you tell your doctor if you are experiencing any sort of aches or pains for any period of time.
While you are receiving treatment for pain, be sure to constantly update your doctor and/or nurse about your condition. Any concerns you may have regarding the medication you receive should be taken up with your health care professional, as well. It is important that you have peace of mind when undergoing any form of treatment after diagnosis. Be sure you let the doctor know of any allergies you have or past conditions that may affect what kind of treatment you’ll receive.
Try a support or self-help group
Support groups are a good place to get information and learn from others. You may also feel less alone. You may prefer individual counselling, or one-to-one peer support. Ask your healthcare team about support groups and counselling services that may be available at your treatment centre.
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