Esophageal Cancer (cont.)
The importance of followup care
Followup care after treatment for esophageal cancer is important to ensure
that any changes in health are found. If the cancer returns or progresses or if
a new cancer develops, it can be treated as soon as possible. Checkups may
include physical exams, x-rays, or lab tests. Between scheduled appointments,
patients should report any health problems to their doctor as soon as they
appear.
Providing emotional support
Living with a serious disease is challenging. Apart from having to cope with
the physical and medical challenges, people with cancer face many worries,
feelings, and concerns that can make life difficult. They may find they need
help coping with the emotional as well as the practical aspects of their
disease. In fact, attention to the emotional burden of having cancer is often a
part of a patient's treatment plan. The support of the health care team
(doctors, nurses, social workers), support groups, and patient-to-patient
networks can help people feel less isolated and distressed, and improve the
quality of their lives. Cancer support groups provide a setting in which cancer
patients can talk about living with cancer with others who may be having similar
experiences. Patients may want to speak to a member of their health care team
about finding a support group.
Questions for your doctor
Asking your doctor the following questions will help you further understand
your condition. To help you remember what the doctor says, you may take notes or
ask whether you may use a tape recorder. Some people also want to have a family
member or friend with them when they talk to the doctor -- to take part in the
discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.
Diagnosis
- What tests can diagnose esophageal cancer? Are they painful?
- How soon after the tests will I learn the results?
Treatment
- What treatments are recommended for me?
- What clinical trials are appropriate for my type of cancer?
- Will I need to be in the hospital to receive my treatment? For how long?
- How might my normal activities change during my treatment?
Side Effects
- What side effects should I expect? How long will they last?
- Whom should I call if I am concerned about a side effect?
- What will be done if I have pain?
Followup
- After treatment, how often do I need to be checked? What type of followup
care should I have?
- What type of nutritional support will I need? Where can I get it?
- Will I eventually be able to resume my normal activities?
The Health Care Team
- Who will be involved with my treatment and rehabilitation? What is the role
of each member of the health care team in my care?
- What has been your experience in caring for patients with esophageal cancer?
Resources
- Are there support groups in the area with people I can talk to?
- Are there organizations where I can get more information about cancer,
specifically esophageal cancer?
- Are there Web sites I can visit that have accurate information about cancer,
especially esophageal cancer?
Next: Where can patients with cancer of the
esophagus get more information? »
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