Even talking about cancer can be scary. Until you actually hear the phrase “you have cancer” yourself from a physician, can you even begin to comprehend the emotional devastation that follows the diagnosis. Whether the cancer is caught early and carries a good prognosis, or is in late stages, the result of this diagnosis will be big changes in your routines. This article is here to provide guidance through these changes and challenges.
Keeping a healthy level of body weight lets you feel great overall, but diet and exercise are also proven preventers of most cancers. Mix your diet with a good deal of fresh fruits and vegetables to put a nice bow on your daily routine. These little changes can make a huge difference in your well-being.
Before starting treatment, you should first learn about what types of changes you can expect to encounter. Ask your doctor to explain all the side effects of any medication or other treatment he prescribes for your cancer. Common things you might need to do include buying a wig to address hair loss or wear makeup, due to changes in complexion.
Many people still believe old myths about cancer. A lot of people think you can catch cancer or you are out of work forever. Try not to hide anything, and be honest.
Don’t be afraid to make yourself heard. A lot of people still have old fashioned beliefs about cancer, and some even believe that cancer can be transmitted from person to person. By thinking about these answers in advance, you will be better prepared when these questions arise. It will benefit you greatly and how other people respond during your treatment.
Smokers must be aware that quitting can protect them from colon and lung cancer, as well as emphysema. Inhaled smoke from the tobacco transfers carcinogens to the colon and the tobacco itself can increase the size of colon polyps. Just another reason to avoid smoking.
Drinking large quantities of sugar-filled carbonated beverages loaded with artificial colors, preservatives and flavors, can increase the chances of you developing cancer. The excessive sugar and calorie content of these drinks can contribute to weight gain, and being overweight increases the risk of certain types of cancer.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you are going to have to learn how to accept some cold, hard facts now, so you don’t have to learn about them the hard way down the road. Prepare yourself now to fight the good fight.
It is very important that you have a large support system of friends and family and also cancer health professionals. In addition to doctors, nurses and medical assistants who help attack your physical disease, you’ll need people who provide support and empathy, so that you don’t develop depression or other mental problems along with the cancer. This is a journey you cannot make alone, so form the intention of reaching out and accepting these new people into your life.
Talk to others. If you’re friends and family aren’t giving you the support you need, approach the topic politely. Let them know how and why they can assist you. You must consider what you plan to say to each person, and word it in a way that will be non-confrontational. Times like these are extremely difficult for anyone. Love should always be your foundation. It is critical that you not have any regrets at this point.
Don’t be afraid to fight. If there’s a time to fight, it’s when you’re dealing with a direct threat to your life. Gather as much strength as you can; you may be fighting cancer for years before you can hope to defeat it.
No matter the stage of cancer you’re in, you can do many things to improve your life, and get help and support from others. Use these tips to develop strategies that work for you and help you approach cancer in an educated way.
