You may know that atoms called free radicals are just one of the many ways that cancer can be caused within your body. Thankfully, there are many ways to prevent and to treat this scary disease. The next few paragraphs serve as a simple guide to some of these methods.

Cancer is a trying ordeal for a person and his or her family. 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.

TIP! Did you know that consuming large amounts of sugar can actually make your cancer grow more quickly? Cancer cells feed on sugar, and eliminating it from the diet can sometimes starve the cancer cells. This might not get rid of your cancer, but you can use it with something else to help treat it.

Be prepared for physical changes that could occur from the cancer treatments. Discuss the side effects of any drugs or other treatments with your doctor. If you lose your hair, get a wig and if your skin looks pale, use makeup.

Watch the veggies and fruits you buy, as they could be contaminated. Farmers often douse crops with chemical pesticides and fertilizers to ward off insects and disease. If you can’t buy untreated organic vegetables and fruits, make sure to wash your produce thoroughly.

Ask questions when you need to or make the effort to share your difficulties. A lot of people still have old fashioned beliefs about cancer, and some even believe that cancer can be transmitted from person to person. Figure out your responses to these and then address them as soon as you can. It can help how you are treated by others during your treatment.

TIP! Prepare yourself for the changes you will go through, while being treated for cancer. Ask your doctor about different side effects.

Your loved one needs you to really listen to his feelings about his cancer diagnosis. 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. This is a time to avoid your own opinions and simply listen to their feelings and concerns.

Colon Cancer

To avoid getting certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer, it’s best to educate yourself about their symptoms. Some of the symptoms of colon cancer include sudden weight loss, bloody or thin stools and excessive cramping. If you start to see these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately.

TIP! Some people may have old-fashioned ideas about cancer and its effects. They may fear that your disease is something that is contagious, or that you can no longer perform your job at work.

Smoking can cause emphysema and lung cancer, as well as colon cancer. Smoking allows carcinogens to be transferred to the colon causing cancer and increasing the size of any colon polyps. It is just another good reason why you should seriously consider to stop smoking.

It is important to read everything you can about cancer, so that you can be informed. Learning will give you the confidence you need.

Sodas and other sugary drinks can increase your chances of getting cancer, so stop drinking them. Eating too many calories and carbohydrates induces weight gain, which can contribute to the development of cancer.

Being a cancer patient forces you to accept a number of truths right up front. Plan now to be a fighter later.

What you want people to do, and what people are capable of, are two entirely different things. Have appreciation for all support you get.

Support Groups

TIP! Most people know smoking can lead to lung cancer, but few know it also can lead to colon cancer. The ingredients in cigarettes expose your colon to toxic carcinogens, and tobacco can lead to formation of colon polyps.

If a friend or family member is suffering from cancer, you should help them to find support groups where they can chat with fellow sufferers. The Internet should contain loads of information about cancer support groups in your neighborhood, and all the groups will be more than happy to accommodate a new member. This will give the individual with cancer an additional outlet for their emotions.

Seal up any decks or play sets that were built before 2005. The wood used to construct some of these structures may have been treated with a pesticide that contains arsenic. You can reduce the risk of you or your kids coming into contact with this potential carcinogen by thoroughly sealing the structure.

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. You may have specific questions about how best to care for your loved one, and the doctor is probably the best person to answer them.

TIP! Cancer can potentially grow and spread, if you let depression get the best of your health. They may stop trying to fight the disease.

Do not drink coffee while undergoing cancer treatment if you are experiencing nausea. The caffeine aggravates these symptoms, so you want to stop drinking it altogether. You should also steer clear of soda and chocolates, as they contain caffeine as well.

When a family member has cancer, try not to be overly solicitous. Treat them as you normally do. People who have cancer require a lot of positive energy and support from their friends and family. If you express pity or excessive sorrow for their condition, they may begin to feel guilty or have other negative thoughts.

Skin Cancer

TIP! Don’t let the thought of some mild discomfort discourage you if you need to be screened for breast cancer. The pain only lasts for a few brief moments.

To reduce the chances of getting skin cancer, cover your skin with either clothing or an effective sunscreen whenever you go out in the sun. Skin cancer can quickly contaminate other organs within the body, and this cancer is caused by the UV rays of the sun. At a very minimum you should wear a sunscreen that is SPF30+, and make sure it is also waterproof.

You should never underestimate the value of information. The more information you have about any situation the more informed you will be, and this helps you beat the odds. Fighting cancer is one of life’s greatest challenges. Put the information you have learned to use, and you will have a better chance of coping with cancer.