Breast Cancer (cont.)
What about complementary and alternative medicine?
Some women with breast cancer use complementary and alternative medicine
(CAM):
- An approach is generally called complementary medicine when it is used
along with standard treatment.
- An approach is called alternative medicine when
it is used instead of standard treatment.
You may want to ask the doctor these questions before you decide to use CAM:
- What benefits can I expect from this approach?
- What are its risks?
- Do
the expected benefits outweigh the risks?
- What side effects should I watch
for?
- Will the approach change the way my cancer treatment works? Could this be
harmful?
- Is this approach under study in a clinical trial? If so, who sponsors
the trial?
- Will my health insurance pay for this approach?
|
Acupuncture, massage therapy, herbal products, vitamins or special diets,
visualization, meditation, and spiritual healing are types of CAM.
Many women say that CAM helps them feel better. However, some types of CAM
may change the way standard treatment works. These changes could be harmful. And
some types of CAM could be harmful even if used alone.
Some types of CAM are expensive. Health insurance may not cover the cost.
You also may request materials from the Federal Government's National Center
for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. You can reach their clearinghouse
toll-free at 1-888-644-6226 (voice) and 1-866-464-3615 (TTY). In addition, you
can visit the Center's Web site at http://www.nccam.nih.gov, or send an email to
info@nccam.nih.gov.
Nutrition and physical activity
It is important for women with breast cancer to take care of themselves. Taking care of yourself includes eating well and staying as active as you can.
You need the right amount of calories to maintain a good weight. You also need enough protein to keep up your strength. Eating well may help you feel better and have more energy.
Sometimes, especially during or soon after treatment, you may not feel like eating. You may be uncomfortable or tired. You may find that foods do not taste as good as they used to. In addition, the side effects of treatment (such as poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores) can make it hard to eat well. Your doctor, dietitian, or other health care provider can suggest ways to deal with these problems.
Many women find they feel better when they stay active. Walking, yoga, swimming, and other activities can keep you strong and increase your energy. Exercise may reduce nausea and pain and make treatment easier to handle. It also can help relieve stress. Whatever physical activity you choose, be sure to talk to your doctor before you start. Also, if your activity causes you pain or other problems, be sure to let your doctor or nurse know about it.
Next: What about follow-up care? »
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