The Stages of Cancer: Treatment and Side Effects

December 1st, 2008

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.

There are many possible side effects in any cancer treatment protocol. Of the more common side effects reports often include nausea, slow healing, loss of hair, changes to nails, digestion issues, pain, loss of smell or taste, weight change, fatigue anxiety and stress.

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.

How do we downplay the side effects caused by cancer treatment? There are two powerful methods. First we have diet. A healthy diet includes lean non-red meats, fiber and whole grains, plenty of vegetables, especially the cruciferous variety, and lots of water. In addition: gravies, cottage cheese, yogurt and shakes, and non-acidic fruits. It is recommended that these meals be divided into multiple small meals throughout the day.

The second of the top-two self care aids in reducing the affects of cancer treatment is energy healing. This includes reiki, healing touch, therapeutic touch, quantum healing or other healing modalities, including meditation and prayer . Many report decreased fatigue, and less mental, physical and emotional stress. It is believed that these self awareness practices bring balance to the body processes and improve the healing response.

Things To take into account: Many people with cancer have their sense of smell, taste, or appetite affected (or things taste metallic). Be creative with favorite/comfort dishes, or new ones, and/or use wood or plastic utensils to cook or eat with. Prepare food in smaller amounts, vent odors, make sure the foods are easy to digest (generally not raw), and have hard candies available to stimulate saliva/digestive processes. Add a splash of juice to water to make it more appealing/palatable.

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.

About the Author:

Virginia Pipolini writes articles on alternative health options for all walks of life. What more can we do to cure and rid ourselves of cancer and other life-threatening conditions?

Tags: cancer, compassion, diet, disease, health, Health & Fitness, illness, Nutrition, wellness
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