Hearing a cancer diagnosis is a life-altering and emotional time. A million thoughts race through your mind about treatments, life, death, your family, your friends, your job, and more. Although nothing can completely eliminate the stress of dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment, the tips given in this article will help to ease the process.
Too much exposure to the sun can lead to cancer, especially skin cancer. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen and wearing a hat.
The first thing smokers should do when diagnosed with cancer is quit. Some cancer patients mistakenly reason that there is no point in quitting since they’re already sick. The carcinogens contained in cigarettes could decrease the chance of their body recovering from cancer.
Be prepared for physical changes that could occur from the cancer treatments. Your doctor will be able to tell you what affect treatment and drugs may have. You may find that you feel more comfortable wearing makeup during your treatments, or you might also consider wearing a wig.
Many people still believe old myths about cancer. There are those who believe that people with cancer are unable to work. There are even some people who still believe that cancer is contagious. Be as honest and open as possible.
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. Visit your doctor if you notice any of these signs.
It is a well known fact that fish such as salmon is a healthy food choice. However, have you heard that omega 3 and the low mercury in salmon helps prevent cancer? Eat two to three servings each week of wild salmon and it can help battle any cancer-causing cells.
If someone close to you has cancer, accompany them on their doctor’s visits. Talk to their doctor about any questions or concerns you might have. Being able to have your questions addressed will help you to support your loved one more fully.
Stop Drinking
Stop drinking coffee if the cancer medications and treatments you are taking are not agreeing with your stomach. The caffeine aggravates these symptoms, so you want to stop drinking it altogether. You should also avoid other caffeine sources, like soda and chocolate.
Get your daily requirement of vitamin E met. Some studies have shown that consuming the recommended daily allowance of vitamin E each day could help to prevent cancer in both men and women. Getting vitamin E doesn’t need to involve a harsh supplement. There are yummy foods that provide all the vitamin E you need.
Joining a support group focused on cancer is a good idea for you, whether you are an ongoing sufferer, or just recently diagnosed. You can talk to other sufferers about how you can physically and mentally cope with this disease. In most cases, family members and other loved ones will be able to accompany you to group meetings.
Tell your friends and family about the diagnosis in an open and honest manner. A strong support system is important at this time, so do not try to be tough and end up feeling alone and isolated. Open lines of communication build sound bonds that are healthy and beneficial to all involved.
Prior to undergoing treatment, ask any and all questions you must to fully grasp just what physical changes your body will go through. If you know what to expect, it will be easier to deal with. If hair loss is eminent, talk to others about what they would recommend as far as wigs and makeup.
Keep in mind that ultra violet radiation can actually penetrate some fabrics and burn your skin. If you can’t find UV blocking clothing in a local store, buy yourself a wardrobe of it online.
Reducing your risk of cancer is much simpler than beating it. Prevent skin cancer by staying out of the sun for long periods of time, and use a adequate sunscreen all over yourself.
Be sure to set aside some time for enjoyment. You don’t have to let your diagnosis of cancer significantly impact your lifestyle. Continue to find time for things that bring you enjoyment, such as the cinema, reading a great book, or heading out to a football game. You might need to be extra cautious in your planning to make sure anything you do does not take too much out of you, but not enough to where you are not enjoying yourself.
Pay attention to what your body is doing. If you are feeling tired, get rest. If you lack energy, try to allow for healthier foods in your diet. Listen to what your body tells you, and respond to its needs.
Many complementary therapies now exist which can work in conjunction with traditional cancer treatments and help to rid your body of the disease more quickly. You might want to try receiving a massage or acupuncture. Attending a yoga class or trying aromatherapy can also significantly reduce your stress. Look into these alternative therapies, and take advantage of those which appeal to you to find a way to relax during this stressful period.
Alcohol can increase your chances of getting several different types of cancer. Heavy or chronic drinking puts you at a greater risk for developing certain types of cancer. Cancers in the mouth, esophagus and throat can be caused by alcohol. When you do drink, limit the amount of alcohol.
Remember to let anyone you know with cancer know how much you love them. There’s no substitute for saying I love you. When you do this you provide a good way of affirming everything is going to be fine, which can help relieve a lot of stress which is beneficial in the long run.
The stress and fears regarding cancer that plague your mind can be set at ease in so many different ways. There are several ways to ease the process though, but not everyone will benefit from the same things. By using the tips in the article you have just read, and taking it day by day, you have a better mindset to succeed in your battle with cancer.