Knowing and understanding the disease generally prepares one to manage things better. When your near one is diagnosed with cancer, initially it may be a denial phase for both of you, followed by acceptance. Accepting the facts is essential so that you can work towards taking care of the patient and his or her treatment.
As a cancer caregiver, it will be helpful for you to understand the disease condition and more importantly the stage at which the disease was diagnosed, the various tests and investigations that are advised by the doctor. This is important because the stage of the disease determines the kind of treatment the doctor would recommend. Based on the prescribed treatment, hospital stay, number of visits, side-effects, expenses, etc. will be decided. At times, surgery may be recommended followed by chemotherapy or radiation or vice versa.
Chemotherapy includes administration of various medicines to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. Radiation also helps to kill the cancer cells. If either of these is given before surgery, its objective is to reduce the size of the tumor to make it operable. If given after surgery, it aims to eliminate residual cancer cells, if any. Some cancers may need multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation cycles.
Also, before each chemotherapy cycle, various laboratory investigations (diagnostic tests) may be required. This is important so that the doctor can decide whether the patient can tolerate the next chemotherapy cycle. If the results are unfavorable, the cycle may be postponed, and the patient may be kept under observation.
Sometimes the patient may have to be managed at the hospital after the treatment cycle is administered due to side effects of the anticancer medicines or radiation. Radiation or chemotherapy weakens the patient badly, and they need full-time care as well as motivation to carry on. As a cancer caregiver, it is vital to never lose hope even in sad moments.
Giving care and support during this time can be a challenge. Many caregivers put their own needs and feelings aside to focus on the person with cancer. This can be hard to maintain for a long time, and it’s not good for your health. The stress can have both physical and psychological effects. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of others.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Sometimes more than the diseased, you may feel the brunt of the treatment. Also, you may think that the initial cycles are taking a toll on the patient’s health. Do not get disappointed or lose hope. Do not hold the treatment. Your doctor is the expert who would give appropriate advice.
As a cancer caregiver, this what you need to remember:
Also Read: Exploring the Link: What Type of Cancer Causes Low Hemoglobin Levels?
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.