At Altru Cancer Center, we understand that the more you know about cancer,
the easier it is to fight. In this section, you will find detailed information
about what to expect before, during, and after cancer treatment.
If you have any questions about what to expect from cancer treatment, please
call us at
701.780.5400.
Dealing with Cancer
When struggling with cancer, remembering the following tips can help you
find your way through this difficult period.
Learn as much as you can.
The more you know about cancer, the better prepared you are to fight it
Join support groups to learn from other cancer patients' experiences
Ask your doctor about all treatment options, or even get a second opinion
Make plans.
Making plans, even for something as minor as a weekend dinner, will give
feelings of control and hope about your future
Set goals and try new things, don't let cancer run your life or dictate
your schedule
Build a support team.
Turn to those around you, and do your best to avoid feelings of alienation
Communication is key; express your feelings, needs and desires to your
loved ones to help them understand what you're going through
Find comfort and advice from other cancer patients by attending support groups
Forgive yourself.
Cancer is not your fault, so don't take responsibility for it happening to you
If you feel guilty about previous arguments regarding your diagnosis or
treatment, your loved ones will forgive you
We are all human, and we all make mistakes
Recognize and accept your emotions.
However difficult it may be, remain open about your feelings
Use natural feelings of fear, sadness and anger to your advantage in the
battle with cancer
If you feel your emotions are running out of control, consult your spiritual
counselor or mental health professional for help
Outlook is important.
Negativity will not help you beat cancer, but optimism can
Don't stress yourself out. Give your body every opportunity to use your
energy to beat cancer
Keep the faith.
During trying times, many people draw hope and courage from religion
Many cancer patients find that their struggle deepens their spirituality,
thus strengthening their resolve
Take heart and enjoy the good times.
Cancer will likely be the toughest fight of your life, confront it full-on
and know that you cannot beat it overnight
Bad days will happen, don't let them get you down
Take advantage of opportunities to do something you have always wanted to do
Never be afraid to tell someone that you love them
Don't let your fear and anger stop you from living life.
Time is valuable, don't waste a moment
For more information about living with cancer, please call us at
701.780.5400.
Managing Cancer Pain
Having cancer does not necessarily mean you will experience the symptoms
of cancer pain. However, for those who are experiencing cancer pain, our
Pain Management Department can improve your quality of life at any stage
of the disease.
Cancer pain:
Is rarely experienced by patients with early cancer
Is not always a symptom of advanced cancer
Is a burden that can almost always be relieved or controlled
With the right people by your side you can manage the side effects and
focus on getting healthy.
The side effects of cancer treatment:
Are different for everyone, not all patients experience all side effects
Are dependent on what medications and treatments you receive
Are found in the healthy, fast-growing cells of your body (hair, intestine,
bone marrow and reproductive system)
There are four main categories of side effects, plus some that are not
considered part of any of these categories. You may or may not experience
any or all of these side effects.
Hair and skin side effects:
Are common for both chemotherapy and radiation therapy patients (if given
to the head)
Include thinning or loss of hair, though it usually grows back once treatment
is complete
Include acne or redness, itching, peeling or dryness of the skin
To care for your hair and skin when experiencing side effects:
Use mild shampoos and soaps, and soft hairbrushes
Avoid excessive use of hot or cold applications (such as hot water or ice bags)
Use sunscreen, sunblock or hats to protect your scalp and skin from the sun
Discuss a variety of over-the-counter medications with your doctor
Avoid tight-fitting clothing over affected skin
Avoid trauma, scratching and bruising to the skin in the treatment area
Mouth and digestive side effects:
Sore mouth or throat that can lead to infection
Dry mouth
Sweet or metallic taste in the mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Diarrhea or constipation
Weight gain or weight loss
To care for your mouth and intestines when experiencing side effects:
Maintain appropriate dental hygiene
Avoid oral irritants, such as spicy foods, smoking and alcohol
Increase your daily fluid intake
Eat soft, moist foods that are easy to swallow
Avoid big meals and eating before treatment
Eat and drink slowly
Eat more or less fiber depending on your bowel movements
Eat several, smaller meals throughout the day
Effects on blood:
Fatigue caused by anemia (low red blood cell count)
Infections due to fewer white blood cells
Difficulty creating blood clots due to decreased platelet count
To care for your blood when experiencing side effects:
Get plenty of rest
Maintain a nutritional diet
Wash your hands often and maintain good hygiene
Avoid exposing yourself to others with contagious illnesses
Tell your doctor if you notice an irritated rectum or have hemorrhoids
Avoid any activity that could cause physical injury
You may also experience the following side effects:
Nerve and muscle problems (such as tingling, numbness, dizziness or loss
of balance)
Kidney and bladder issues
Flu-like symptoms
Fluid retention in your face, hands, feet or abdomen
Lymphedema (swelling in the arms or legs caused by removal or damage to
lymph nodes during treatment)
For more information about cancer treatment side effects or how to care
for them, please call us at
701.780.5400.
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