SELF HELP IN CANCER

by Lymphoma Association

Many people feel helpless when they are diagnosed with cancer and it is easy to become isolated from the mainstream of life. Armed with the right information, however, there are many things you can do to help yourself.

Work

Whether or not you continue to work depends upon the kind of work you do, how you are feeling and, most important of all, what you want to do within the limits of comfort. For some people, work is something they enjoy and can lose themselves in. For others, it is just an additional stress and they want to cut down on their activities and take life more slowly.

If you are taking drugs by mouth only, you will probably be able to work normally. Other treatments take time, although it may be possible for you to arrange to have early or late appointments.

Radiotherapy requires daily attendance at your clinic for a number of weeks, and you may be more tired than normal. If you are receiving chemotherapy by injection, you may need two or three days after each session for recovery time. But life can return to normal in between treatments, and if you are able to work, why not?

As you steadily improve, it can help to set yourself tasks that are progressively more difficult, yet attainable. This can give a great sense of achievement but try not to over tire yourself.

Healthy eating

This is the time to invest in a well balanced diet with a good fluid intake to help the healing processes. Consider as wide a variety as possible of fruits, salads, vegetables and proteins. Eating small, frequent meals may help if your appetite is poor. If your mouth is sore, avoid foods which are very hot or spicy, and very hot or very cold drinks. Choose soft foods such as well-cooked eggs, soups, milk puddings, fish and chicken. Drink lots of fluids. This is not a time for fad diets!

Alcohol

If you enjoy alcohol, there is no reason why you should not take moderate amounts. Beware if you are taking a drug called procarbazine; with even a small amount of alcohol your face is likely to flush.

Exercise

You can start taking exercise as soon as you feel fit enough. Most people find they are more tired than usual during and immediately after treatment. Be careful not to overreach yourself; just do what you feel like doing.

Complementary therapies

There are many people who gain comfort and great benefit from a wide range of complementary therapies, in addition to their conventional treatment. These include yoga, relaxation techniques, visualisation and meditation. TheLymphoma Association offers a range of tapes, leaflets and books on these subjects. Call the Helpline for details.

Managing your medication

Do not stop any treatment without discussing it with your specialist. Keep a tally of how many tablets you should take daily and when. If you are not clear about anything - ask. Only apply for repeat prescriptions from a doctor who is part of the medical team involved with your treatment.

Smoking

This is the time to kick the habit! You always promised yourself that you would. If you can, it will improve your general health. It is particularly important to stop smoking if you receive radiotherapy to the chest.

Holidays

If you are planning a holiday or there is a special event such as a family wedding, let your medical team know in good time so that, if it is possible, your treatment programme can be arranged accordingly. Sometimes this may not be possible and you may have to cancel your arrangements. Tell your specialist if you are planning to travel to an area which requires immunisation for any disease. Some vaccines cause adverse reactions in lymphoma patients so, if you cannot be immunised, your doctor may be able to arrange an exemption certificate for you. Occasionally, you may be advised not to travel abroad because of the risk of infection.

Insurance

You may experience some difficulty in obtaining life and holiday insurance. If you are considering life cover, talk to your specialist who may be able to provide a letter for the insurance company about your health. Generally, health insurance does not cover claims arising out of illnesses which were known about at the time the policy was taken out.