Sometimes, when people hear the word cancer, a chill runs down their spine. However, those who have never heard their physician say, “you have cancer,” cannot even begin to fathom the bleakness and devastating feelings that those few short words can convey. Whether the cancer is treatable or not, being diagnosed with cancer stimulates many drastic life changes. The purpose of this article is to help reduce the difficulty of dealing with changes that will come into your life with a cancer diagnosis.
The diagnosis of cancer challenges the patient, but it also takes a toll on the family as well. Because most forms of cancer are curable if caught early enough, it is important that you consult with as many professionals as you can as often as you can.
There are many people out there who have antiquated notions of cancer. Certain people believe that cancer can be transferred from person to person, while others think that they can no longer work. Be honest about the extent of your condition.
If a loved one has been given a diagnosis of cancer, spend time with them and simply listen. It can seem hard to talk about at first, but you will soon understand the importance of being able to express your feelings to another person who actually understands what you are going through. Try to listen without interjecting your ideas or opinions. Let your loved one have this time to simply release some of the difficult thoughts and sentiments he or she is struggling to deal with at this challenging time.
Colon Cancer
If you feel that you are at risk of certain kinds of cancer, such as colon cancer, it is important to be knowledgeable of the symptoms involved. Sudden weight loss, cramping, thin stools and stools that contain blood are all symptoms of colon cancer. If you show any of these signs, get yourself checked out.
While it may be common information that quitting smoking can reduce the chances emphysema and lung cancer, many smokers are unaware that smoking can also lead to colon cancer. The smoke you breathe in causes carcinogens to build up in the colon. The tobacco can make the colon polyps bigger, too. These are some convincing reasons to quit smoking.
If you do have cancer, be sure to always inform yourself on the subject and always be on the lookout for new information. A confident attitude is an important ally in your fight.
Depression will reduce the effectiveness of your immune system, opening up the chance for your cancer to grow or metastasize. They may completely give up the fight.
Wild Salmon
It is common knowledge that certain fish, such as wild salmon, is extremely healthy. However, were you aware that the omega-3 fat and low mercury in salmon can prevent cancer? Eating a few servings of wild salmon every week can help you battle cancer-causing cells in the body.
Be open to making new friends while you are afflicted with cancer, because a number of individuals you did not know before are going to be critical now. These people include oncologists, nurses, chemo specialists and anyone who can assist you, empathize and help with what you are going through. It is impossible to go it alone, so welcome these new people into your life with open arms.
The reality of your fight with cancer may be different from what you expected. It is important to let those who are supporting you know that you appreciate all they are doing for you.
Loved Ones
Communication is the key! If you need more assistance from your loved ones and friends, just ask them in a nice way for their help. In a gentle manner, let your loved ones know why you need their assistance and identify what they can do to be most helpful. Practice caution in this situation though. This is an extremely difficult time. Instead use love and compassion. It is critical that you not have any regrets at this point.
Never believe the hype that alcohol actually prevents cancer! However, wine may help, seeing as it is made from grapes. You can actually have a greater risk of getting cancer if you drink large amounts of alcohol.
If someone you know has cancer, find them someone to talk to. There are plenty of virtual support groups, as well as local cancer survivors who can speak with your loved one. Doing this provides an extra emotional outlet for the person with cancer.
Take vitamin E on a daily basis. Maintaining the proper levels of vitamin E has been helpful in reducing the risk of cancer for both women and men. Take a supplement or change your diet so you get your daily dose of vitamin E.
Whether you had a recent cancer diagnosis or if you’ve been fighting it a while, you might want to get into a support group. It is good to speak to other cancer patients about how they cope with the disease. In most cases, family members and other loved ones will be able to accompany you to group meetings.
It can be difficult to know how to treat a family member with cancer, but it is best to treat them normally. Positive energy is what a cancer patient needs right now, negativity will only lead to self-pity, and possibly even a defeatist attitude.
Life continues to progress even when you’re ill. Try to keep in your regular routine as much as you possibly can so you have a sense of normalcy to your life. If you find joy in something, do not let your cancer keep you away from it. You will derive pleasure from sticking with it, making it easier to feel upbeat and positive.
There are certain therapies that can assist you in treating your disease and helping you with life afterwards. 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.
Regardless of the specifics of your cancer diagnosis, there are many treatments and resources available to you to help make your life better. Hopefully, this article has provided you with useful information and techniques to help you to deal with cancer and all that it entails.