For most people, a diagnosis of cancer is a life-changing event that commonly evokes feelings of shock, fear, anger, sadness, loneliness, and anxiety. The diagnosis is just the beginning of a challenging journey in which patients and loved ones find themselves in unfamiliar territory. The truth is there will be some unknowns along the way, such as how you will react to treatments. Being well informed and adopting coping mechanisms can make this difficult period in your life a little easier.
Breast Cancer Tips
Do research when choosing a breast cancer specialist: Consider practices that dedicate themselves to breast health, cancer centers that offer specific expertise and the latest treatments, or hospitals with specialized programs. Use a combination of online resources that rate physicians, recommendations from trusted primary care providers, and suggestions from personal acquaintances when choosing a provider.
Empower yourself through knowledge: Prepare a list of questions for your health cancer providers ahead of time. Physicians and nurses are very busy, so being prepared will help you maximize your limited appointment time. Being well informed from a clinical standpoint will help you feel empowered. Only use reputable Internet sources to do this research – there is a lot of misinformation posted online.
Acknowledge that you need support: Breaking the news to your friends and family may be just as difficult as receiving the diagnosis yourself. You may feel alone and find it difficult to communicate with people in your life during this time. Do not be afraid to acknowledge the need for outside emotional support. A breast cancer support group can be very helpful for those who are willing to share feelings in a group environment. If you are a more private person and not comfortable with a group setting, individual therapy can help. Ask your hospital or clinic to help you identify appropriate resources in your area.
Seek financial assistance if you need it: The costs associated with breast cancer treatment and follow-up care can be a financial strain for some people and their families, even with health insurance. If you are uninsured or unemployed, paying for treatment may seem overwhelming. Most hospitals and treatment centers have financial counselors and patient navigators. They can help you with the details of your insurance paperwork and give you an estimate of the cost of your treatment. In addition, there are national organizations that offer financial assistance for breast cancer medications and care, as well as local groups that offer financial help for practical things like transportation, food, and childcare. Ask your physician or hospital for a list of these organizations.
Address menopause symptoms with your physician: Chemotherapy, ovary removal, or discontinuing hormone replacement therapy can cause some breast cancer patients to experience symptoms of menopause. Talk to your physician about ways to safely minimize menopausal symptoms.
Follow a healthy lifestyle: You may feel better and lessen bouts of nausea or queasiness by eating numerous small snacks throughout the day, rather than three big meals. Gentle exercise during treatment, including walking, swimming, or yoga can help ease the mental and physical effects of chemotherapy. Have a goal of at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day. If you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol, it would help to limit this or quit.
Continue working during treatment: For many people, it is important to continue working to maintain a degree of normalcy during a time of uncertainty. Talking to your employer may feel like an insurmountable task, but it is important for them to know. Some people decide to take time off from their jobs in order to better concentrate on their breast cancer treatment, however, finances may pose a problem. Short-term and long-term disability programs provide a percentage of your income in the event of an injury or illness that prevents you from working. In addition, many employers are willing to work out flexible work schedules in these situations or reduce work hours.
Choose the treatment roadmap personalized for you: Tests such as the Breast Cancer Index can provide clarity on what treatment plan is best for you and allow you to make a well-informed choice when deciding to proceed with extended endocrine treatment.
Although every patient is unique and experiences breast cancer differently, these tips will help you gain a better understanding of what to expect and how to best fight against breast cancer.
