And You Thought Only Infants Get Thrush... Another Unexpected Chemo Side Effect
Most people undergoing chemotherapy come to expect certain side effects of treatment -- hair loss, stomach upset, and sometimes weight loss.  But, when white/yellow patches begin to develop in the mouth or on the tongue, it can come as a total surprise. I have had many people say, "I thought babies only get thrush". While its most common in infants, thrush can occur in people with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy.  During treatment, the immune system has a hard time regulating fungus that is naturally found in the mouth. The result is overgrowth. Learn more about oral ...
Source: About.com Cancer - January 31, 2013 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Will Treatment Make Me Feel Worse?
Don't you just love it when friends and family give medical advice, even when you don't ask for it? When it comes to cancer, it seems like everyone has an uncle or boss who was diagnosed with the exactly same type of cancer as you. This revelation in conversation is usually proceeded by a highly descriptive horror story that involves medical mistakes or the tale of an untimely demise. Either way, when you have cancer, friends and family are going to share their "expert" medical advice and opinions. Sometimes the advice is good and supportive, other times, maybe not so much....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - January 31, 2013 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Sex After Colposcopy: How Long Should You Wait?
When Pap smear results are abnormal, a colposcopy is often recommended to examine the cervix much closer. A colposcopy is a non-invasive method of of examining the cervix with a special lighted scope. Think of it as a microscope for the vagina, vulva, and cervix. One of the most common questions I receive from women who have recently undergone colpo exams is how long they should wait before having sex. Valid question, but the answer really depends on a few difference factors. Read more about having sex after a colposcopy....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - January 31, 2013 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

How Have You Supported a Loved One During Cancer
When my husband was diagnosed with cancer last year, I wanted to give him the support he needed throughout treatment. I was there for every appointment, surgery, and therapy treatment. I ensured his diet contained foods that would promote healing and were healthy. I changed dressings after surgery and helped him dress when he was too weak. As I write this now, I see I did a lot to support my husband, but at the time, I felt like it wasn't enough. When someone you love has cancer, you do everything it takes to make them a little more comfortable and to increase their quality of life....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - January 31, 2013 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Help! I Have Blood In My Urine! Could It Be Cancer?
Finding blood in places where you don't normally or shouldn't find blood can be a frightening experience. When people discover blood in their urine, their initial reaction often involves panic. After all, it's not exactly natural to have blood in the urine and can be a shocker to see on tissue or in the toilet. After a quick Google search, most people are relieved that the likely culprit is likely an infection, but other look deeper into less likely causes, like cancer....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - January 29, 2013 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

When You Should Worry About a Sore Throat?
For most people, a sore throat means having a cold, a virus, or other infection that can eaily be treated with rest and a course of antibiotics. For others, it can mean something more serious, like throat cancer. But, how can you tell the difference between a cold related sore throat and one that make signal something more serious?...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - January 29, 2013 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Dehydration During Treatment
Staying hydrated during treatment is essential! Dehydration can be common in people undergoing treatment for cancer, especially in those who are experiencing side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The loss of fluids can quickly lead to dehydration, a condition marked by decreased levels of water in the fluid in the body to allow it to properly function. If left untreated or unrecognized, hospitalization may be needed. Learn how to recognize the symptoms of dehydration. (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Fighting Cancer Fatigue with Energy Drinks: Why It's a Bad Idea
Venture into any convenience store and you will notice refrigerated cases stocked to the brim with dozens of different types of energy drinks. From AMP to Red Bull, these products promise an increase in energy and concentration, two things that may be tempting for someone experiencing cancer fatigue. Before you reach for a can, read why energy drinks may be a bad idea for people trying to combat cancer fatigue....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Can I Have a Glass of Champagne On New Year's Eve If I am Going Through Chemo?
A glass of champagne to ring in the New Year is global tradition and one that many cancer patients wonder if they can still take part in. While one glass of champagne shouldn't cause harm in cancer patients, it's really best to ask a doctor before having any bubbly. Chemotherapy drugs and other medications prescribed during cancer treatment can interact with alcohol, causing an adverse or toxic reaction. It really depends on the medications you are taking. Remember to always get the "go ahead" from your oncologist before taking any medications or drinking/eating foods that may interact with your treatment meds....Read Full...
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

How Much Alcohol Increases Your Cancer Risk?
It's no secret that consuming alcohol can increase your risk of developing several types of cancer. Experts warn us of the risk, but often don't elaborate on how much alcohol actually increases our risk. Is it a daily wine glass? Or a 12 oz bottle of beer? What about liquor?...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Pay a Tribute to a Loved One with Cancer
One of my favorite poems is "In Memoriam" by Lord Alfred Tennyson. If you are not familiar with it, it is about Tennyson's grief over a the loss of a ...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Hugo Chavez Suffering Complications From Last Cancer Surgery
Venezuelan President, Hugo Chavez, is reported to be suffering from a serious respiratory condition following his most recent cancer surgery this month. Vice President Nicolas Maduro described the president's condition to be "delicate" in a televised address to the Venezuelan people. Chavez has remained in Cuba since Dec. 11, when he underwent cancer treatment surgery....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Hillary Clinton Brain Cancer Rumor Continues to Circulate
Rumors about Hillary Clinton's health continue to circulate, as The National Enquirer published a story claiming the Secretary of State is suffering from brain cancer. The tabloid news publication has never been known for its credible news reporting, but it's story has ignited several conspiracy theories concerning Clinton's departure from her political post....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news

Low Libido During Treatment
We are all aware of the common side effects of cancer treatment like nausea and hair loss, but many patients are surprised to learn that some treatments may affect their sex life. Low libido is common during cancer treatment and can be frustrating for couples who want to maintain intimacy during treatment. Often, the treatment itself crushes libido, but stress can also play a major role in the loss of sexual desire....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Cancer)
Source: About.com Cancer - December 31, 2012 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news