There is no reason to unnecessarily suffer from the effects of treatment or from the disease itself. There have been many advances in the management of nausea, pain, fatigue, weight loss and depression. Many side effects are not visible and, unless voiced by you, will remain untreated. Doctors often say that these problems are not reported to them and are therefore untreated or ignored.
It is important that you now monitor your body, your psyche and its changes during and after your treatment for cancer. Keep a record or journal of your treatments and your physical, emotional and mental state – using a measurable scale. This can be as simple as measuring the intensity of a symptom on a scale from 1 to 5. Ask if your doctor or hospital has already developed such a system for patients. A written record provides a basis of comparison or can indicate a pattern. You can then take corrective action. For example, you may feel well and energetic in the morning, but end up getting your treatment in the late afternoon when you feel weakest. Just by changing the time of your treatment, you may see an immediate difference in your reaction and rate of recovery.
Survivors and their supporters report that you can improve your ability to cope and your quality of life if you:
- Strongly insist on having a nurse and/or case manager assigned to you and available after hours.
- Select one family member or friend as your representative if you are unable to speak for yourself. Be sure to inform your health care team in advance.
- Articulate your symptoms to your doctor. Don’t wait to be asked! If necessary, use your journal as documentation.
- Avail yourself of professional and/or peer support and self-help groups.
