You might not have been prepared to hear the diagnosis of your cancer, but you can very well be prepared for the cancer treatment.
Even small measures and preparation can help you be in control of your state. It is normal for you to be anxious before the treatment starts. Being prepared beforehand will help you overcome anxiety and a sense of uncertainty.
What you need to know before cancer treatment
Your treatment may include many steps. This all depends on the type, the area, the cancer grade and the stage.
Some ways you can prepare yourself for the cancer treatment are:
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Know all about your cancer
The best way to combat fears is to know it all. Read more and more about your cancer type and consult with your doctor if you have any queries. Knowing about your disease prepares you in advance for all sorts of possibilities.
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Connect with people
It’s a good start to connect with people who have been through the same. They can help you understand your cancer on a more personal level and tell you what to expect out of its treatment from their experience. They can also help you prepare and tell you all the requirements.
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Understand the treatment
You should know what the cancer treatment does to your body and how it will treat cancer. Learning about the treatments might seem complicated at first, but once you get a hold of it, it becomes easier. Also, reading about the basics of the options available can help you feel at ease while discussing the treatment options with your doctor.
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Expect changes
Prepare yourself for changes in your appearance. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy might cause hair loss, weight loss, or other side effects. Before the treatment, ask your doctor what you should expect from the treatment. Understand that it is a part of the treatment and your journey towards better health.
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Adopt Healthy Habits
You need to take care of your mental and physical health as you start your treatment. Cancer diagnosis is a big thing. It’s okay to feel however you feel. Try meditation as it can help with anxiety. You can also consider talking to a therapist who is specialised in this.
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Prepare your groceries
Try to make sure you have an ample amount of healthy, nutritious food and drinks in your house. You can also prepare some meals beforehand so that you won’t have the burden of doing it post-treatments. Eating healthy food is important as your body need nutrition during cancer treatment.
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Stock your medical supplies
It is a smart thing to keep certain medical-related items handy like your dressing supplies, prescribed medicines, thermometer, etc. This will ensure that you are not running around when you may need these supplies.
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Pick your companion
Having someone with you during your cancer treatments can help you feel less anxious. They can help drive you to your treatment, ask questions on your behalf, understand home medication, help you cope with the psychological impacts of the treatments, etc.
Despite all these measures, if you still feel anxious or fear your treatment, get in touch with your doctor and let them know your fears. They can help you prepare for cancer treatment by putting your fears at ease.
Conclusion
Being diagnosed with cancer can be overwhelming, but preparing yourself for cancer treatment can help a lot. Understanding your diagnosis, connecting with others, learning about your treatment, and anticipating changes are vital steps.
Managing your finances and communicating clearly with your healthcare team can ease the burden. The road to recovery is long, but using these measures, the road can be a bit smooth.