Monday, December 1, 2008

The Stages of Cancer: Treatment and Side Effects

By Virginia Pipolini

Many of us have an inkling of information about cancer treatment and side effects. This article is in response to numerous requests for more details regarding the stages of cancer, the treatments prescribed, and ways to avoid side effects. Please remember, always consult your doctor or health practitioner regarding dietary changes before implementing any new diet.

The Stages of Cancer are as follows: Zero: small number of cells in one area. I, II, III: how involved; original area plus nearest organ affected, rate of growth and etc. IV: other areas/organs affected, numerous metastases, etc. (sometimes stage IV cancer is referred to as -- terminal -- where the patient is given six weeks to a few months to live.)

There are many treatment systems used for cancer, depending on the severity and type of cancer. Chemotherapy is the most well known, using chemicals to inhibit the reproduction of cancerous cells. Radiation is sometimes used to inhibit the cancer cell growth or shrink tumors. Surgery is another option, removing the cancerous tissues. Immunotherapy involves treating the immune system, either stimulating or inhibiting through nutrition or drugs. Transplant therapy takes healthy stem cell or bone marrow and is placed as a reminder to the other cells to grow healthier.

The Side Effects of cancer treatment protocols (includes, but aren't limited to) the following. The most common: nausea; delayed healing; hair loss; nail changes; digestive problems; pain; loss of smell, taste, or weight; fatigue, anxiety and depression.

The less common side affects in cancer treatment include: allergies; shock; blood pressure changes; serious infections; seizures; vision problems, and etc. Long Term: mental problems; heart attacks (especially from chemotherapy); increased malignancies, and certain death.

What are the two best ways to downsize side effects? First we have diet. Diet is the more potent preventative treatment. The recommended diet is high in protein and calorie, with plenty of liquids, given in several small meals throughout the day. Include lean meat, preferably no red meat, and lots of vegetables. Whole grain/fiber, non-acidic fruits, juices, smoothies, yogurt, cottage cheese, and of course clean water.

The next in the top two self-care side effect therapies is energy healing. The beneficial effects of Reiki, Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch, and Quantum Healing are well documented. The benefits range from decreased mental, physical, emotional stress and pain; balancing bodily processes; and increased healing responses.Energy healing sessions increase the body's ability to survive.

What else should be considered in the treatment of cancer? Many report that their taste changes. Not in clothing or music, but their sense of taste. There is immense pleasure in the taste of foods, and many report a loss of this sensation, or a metallic taste. What can you do to help? Provide smaller portions, vent odors, and make sure the food is easy to chew and digest. Have some hard candies available to help stimulate saliva, which will in turn aid digestion. Add a little juice for more flavor.

And last, but not least, when doing energy work on someone with cancer, be gentle; don't overwhelm them, and give them time to respond. You can serve in an important role as a caregiver, practitioner, healer or friend.

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