The Stages of Cancer: Treatment and Side Effects
You or a loved one might have questions regarding the stages of cancer, the treatments typically prescribed, and how to deal with the side effects of those sometimes aggressive treatments. This article will focus on answering each of those questions. Always consult with your health care practitioner before you start any new diet program.
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.)
What are some of the Treatment methods used for Cancer? Surgical: laser or instruments to remove/cut out cancerous tissue. Radiation: high doses of radioactive materials to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Chemotherapy: chemicals/drugs to stop the growth or limit the rapid reproduction of cancer cells. Immunotherapy: nutrients or drugs to stimulate (or suppress) immune responses. Transplants: bone marrow or stem cells to remind the body of what healthy cells are like.
The more common side effects of cancer treatment protocols includes: digestive complaints, pain and fatigue, nausea, and delays in the healing process. Other common complaints are hair loss, changes to the nails, loss of smell or taste, weight changes, and anxiety.
In addition to the more common side effects, there are numerous other possible complaints stemming from cancer treatment protocols. Those are changes to blood pressure, allergies, shock, infections, seizures, and vision problems. Long term issues can include mental health problems, and heart attacks, especially in chemotherapy treatment. Other long term side affects are kidney failure and death from the toxins.
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.
Important procedures on the list of the top two greatest aids in reducing those debilitating side effects is energy healing. These include but are not limited to reiki, therapeutic touch, healing touch, quantum healing, and others. The benefits? There are reports of decreased mental, physical and emotional stress and strain. Others state there is a balancing of the body processes, and increased healing response.
There are many other helpful tips in dealing with the stages of cancer, treatment and side affects. Many who endure those strong cancer treatments have complained of changes to their taste. Most of us do not consider the pleasure we derive from the taste of our food, and to remove that taste or change it to a metallic taste often affects our ability to eat. Add a little juice for a better flavor. Serve smaller portions, and make sure food is easy to chew and digest. Provide hard candies to stimulate saliva production and aid digestion.
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.
