Without a doubt, cancer can be one of the worst diseases to come to terms with. Having some knowledge can really help you when you are experiencing cancer yourself or assisting a loved one who is. The advice in this article can help make your struggle with cancer less stressful.
Cancer is a trying ordeal for a person and his or her family. A wide variety of treatment types exist, and some cancers can even be cured, which is why it is important to have good medical advice.
Fresh fruits and vegetables should always be washed before they are eaten. Many are sprayed with some pesticides to protect against fungus, bacteria, and bugs. A thorough cleaning should be given to all fruits and vegetables in order to remove as much of the offending poison as possible.
Don’t be afraid if you have to have a screening for breast cancer. This process only takes a couple of minutes. Early detection can be the difference between life and death or keeping your breasts and losing them, so a little pressure is well worth it.
Be prepared to make new “friends” when you have cancer; i.e. people you have to let into your life with open arms. As a cancer patient, you’re going to be introduced to nurses, chemo specialists, oncologists and many other medical professionals. You can’t deal with cancer on your own.
Never believe that alcohol has any benefits in preventing cancer. Wine could help prevent cancer due to the grapes. Ingesting large quantities of alcohol can actually put you at a higher risk of developing cancer.
If you’re helping someone who has cancer, put them in touch with people they have serious conversations with. Thanks to the Internet, it’s easy to find support groups and even people who will talk to the patient in person. Either option will help the cancer sufferer deal with her emotions more effectively.
Make sure that you are aware of, and understand, which symptoms could point towards cancer. Knowing the signs and symptoms will help you to know what to look for as changes begin.
Make sure that you take the adequate amounts of vitamin E every day. Vitamin E can help to prevent cancer in both women and men. Take a supplement or change your diet so you get your daily dose of vitamin E.
Anyone with cancer should consider joining a support group for those with cancer. You’ll have the chance to talk to others who are going through the same things that you are. Most support groups welcome family member participation, too.
If you are the family member of a cancer patient, it is important that you do not treat your loved one any different. A person with cancer needs positive energy from their family and friends. They often feel down and bad about things, so good energy is beneficial.
Skin Cancer
Before you spend time under the sun, it’s a good idea to cover your skin with either sunscreen or clothing in order to minimize your skin cancer risks. The ultraviolet rays in the sun can be harsh, and melanomas (skin cancer) can quickly be fatal if left untreated. It is a good idea to use a waterproof sunscreen with SPF30 or greater, especially if your skin is fair and even more prone to being sunburned.
Different types of clothing will protect your skin in varying amounts from the sun’s rays. Look online, or in local stores, for protective clothing that you like.
Look for ways to add more fun to your life. Being diagnosed with cancer doesn’t mean that you will be unable enjoy life any longer. Be certain to keep doing all the activities that you have a passion for, from reading, to movies or going to sports games. You may need to plan a little more carefully to ensure that these events do not take an unnecessary toll on you, but you still need to experience life.
Get a minimum of eight nightly hours of rest. Cancer treatments are likely to leave you stressed and exhausted. Sleeping well can help your body heal, and help you be mentally ready for the following day. You may find it helpful to set a time for a nap, or just for a relaxation period each day.
Body Tells
Pay attention to what your body is doing. When your body tells you to rest, take the time to take a nap. If you are feeling run down, consider adding healthy foods to the diet. Listen to what your body tells you, and respond to its needs.
There are a couple different complementary therapies that could help you through the treatments and life after for your disease. Yoga, massage, acupuncture and aromatherapy can all be helpful in limiting your stress. Anything that helps alleviate stress and makes you feel relaxed will be of benefit to you.
Alcohol can increase your chances of getting several different types of cancer. The higher your alcohol consumption, the more likely you are to develop a variety of types of cancer. If you drink excessively, you’re more likely to get mouth cancer, throat cancer or cancer of the esophagus. If you are going to drink alcohol, at least make sure you keep yourself in check as best as possible.
The two most common treatments for cancer of the ovaries are chemotherapy and surgery. Surgery usually calls for the removal of the infected ovaries along with the fallopian tubes, but sometimes will require a full hysterectomy with the removal of lymph nodes close to the affected area. Chemotherapy involves using potent drugs to kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemo is usually done after surgery, although some women are treated this way prior to surgery.
To the extent possible, try to live a normal life. Take things one day at a time, and be flexible about making some changes. Because no one can predict the future, don’t try to over-plan. It is best to live your life to its fullest today,as much as you possible can.
Dealing with cancer can be fearful in itself. Remember these tips for your own support or to help you support an important person in your life who is facing a cancer diagnosis and treatment.