Whether you are interested in learning about the signs of cancer, or if you are experiencing the effects of cancer, there is a whole world of information that you need to tap into to understand what to expect. Learning how to manage cancer is a is key to your medical treatments and learning how to live with it. The following tips will play an important role in your mental, emotional and physical well being.
The human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a cause of cervical cancer. This virus causes genital warts, which are transmitted by sexual contact. The only way to prevent the spread of HPV is the use of condoms and abstinence, or a vaccine that protects against the disease. Be responsible and don’t practice unprotected sex. The possibility of cancer isn’t worth the risk.
Lung cancer is one of the most deadly cancers. It is very difficult to treat, but scientists have discovered that diet may play a major role in reducing the incidence of this type of cancer. A diet low in fat and high in fruits, tomatoes and green vegetables all can reduce the risk. In fact, studies show that apples can reduce the risk of lung cancer by as much as 50 per cent!
It’s important for you to speak up for yourself when you receive a cancer diagnosis – you must communicate with people. If you think that your friends and relatives are not being supportive, broach the issue with them carefully. They may actually be relieved to have you bring it up, and they might also appreciate knowing from you what kind of support you would like and can use. However, you have to approach this with caution. This is one of the hardest times of your life. You should always rely on love, rather than guilt to ask your friends and family for help. Be decisive!
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, make an effort at the end of each day to write down one good thing that happened. There will be times where you feel frustrated, sick and discouraged. Reminding yourself of the good things in your life will help you maintain a positive attitude.
Choose the place to get your mammogram done carefully. It will make a difference in getting accurate readings. Find a doctor that specializes in mammography because they are going to be more accurate and reading the images and you are sure to get better results by this well practiced professional.
It is important that females get a pap smear done at least once every two years. If you have a history of gynecological problems, you may want to have one every year. Pap smears detect cervical cancer and changes in their cervical cells, which if caught early, is very treatable.
If you are a cancer patient who enjoys getting facials, be sure to tell your aesthetician that you are receiving treatments. Although gentle exfoliant are okay for treating the dry skin that chemotherapy may cause, other ingredients in a facial, such as acidic products and peeling ingredients, may not be safe.
Know the moles on your body. It would not hurt to occasionally take a photo of the moles that you have, so you will be able to track their growth. If you have a mole that is growing or changing colors, you must go to have your doctor check it for you immediately.
If you have hiccups from your chemotherapy treatment, talk with your doctor before trying any home remedies. Some of these remedies can actually make your hiccups worse, such as laying upside down and drinking. Your oncologist may want you to try other methods like propping a pillow up before going to sleep.
Create a bucket list. For both cancer patients and non-cancer patients alike, it is helpful to have a list of the things you’d like to experience in your life. Start with small, easily doable things, and then add more involved or difficult items. Make concrete plans to achieve these things. Having this list will remind you of what is important in your life and give you things to look forward to each day.
Consider getting a genetic test for cancer. If you are at high risk for cancer based on family history, it could be beneficial to undergo genetic testing. Before making the decision, be sure to get a complete and accurate family history and discuss your options with your doctor. Knowing whether or not you are genetically predisposed to cancer can influence your prevention strategies and decrease your risk of developing cancer.
If you use the advice of this article, you could greatly decrease the effects of cancer on your mental welfare and well-being. Cancer can take quite a toll on your body, but you could use tips like these to ensure that you are taking the best care of yourself, or even to catch cancer before it spreads too far.
