Treatment

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Treatment

Chapter: 6 - Treatment

Subchapter: 1 - Introduction

Treatment Introduction
In recent years, due to earlier detection and more effective treatments, many women diagnosed with breast cancer overcome the disease and go on to live healthy lives.

Treatment Options Recommended By Your Health Care Provider
It’s important to understand the different types of treatment options available to you, because you are an integral part of your decision-making team. Your medical team will advocate certain treatments, but they will also seek your input.

They will recommend a plan based on:
- Stage of cancer and whether or not it has spread
- Type of cancer, and status of the estrogen, progesterone, or HER2/neu receptors found in the cancer cells
- Your age, health, and menstrual/menopausal stage
- And whether or not this is your first cancer treatment

In general, there are five treatment options, and most treatment plans include a combination of the following:
1) Surgery
2) Radiation
3) Hormone Therapy
4) Chemotherapy
5) Targeted Therapies

Some are local, targeting just the area around the tumor with surgery or radiation. Others are systemic, targeting your whole body with cancer-fighting agents such as chemotherapy.

Most women receive a combination of treatments, but each case is unique, and your medical team will work to find the most effective treatment for you.

Getting A Second Opinion
Even so, you may find yourself second-guessing their recommendations or suggested treatment plan. If you’re hesitant for any reason, you should get the opinion of another doctor before beginning treatment. Your doctor will not mind if you want a second opinion; some insurance plans even require it.

Again, don’t hesitate to ask your medical team questions. When it comes to getting a second opinion, you are your own best advocate.

Related Questions

  • Met with the radiologist today, no rads!

    Asked by anonymous

    Stage 4 Patient
    8 months ago 6 answers •
  • Missing

    I had lumpectomy& node biopsy 2 wks ago,I had lots movement after few days but was still numb,Im regaining feeling but more stiff & pain.I thought Id b back 2 more movement& hoping 2b at work.How long hav people waited b4 back2 normal? I want2 exercise!

    Asked by anonymous

    Learning About Breast Cancer
    11 months ago 6 answers •
    • View all 6 answers
    • Missing
      anonymous
      Learning About Breast Cancer

      I was back at work the next week and exercising the next . I guess it depends on the surgeon, size of the lumpectomy , reaction to anesthesia, and pain tolerance. Good luck!

      3 comments
    • Missing
      anonymous
      Learning About Breast Cancer

      Dear A, My exercise regiment began with walking 15-20 minutes in the morning and evening. I was even able to do it most days during radiation(only 16 rads) if it wasn't too hot. DON'T do hot. It's painful. Not saying that this distance should be your measure-this is me. I practice ISHTA yoga...

      more

      Dear A, My exercise regiment began with walking 15-20 minutes in the morning and evening. I was even able to do it most days during radiation(only 16 rads) if it wasn't too hot. DON'T do hot. It's painful. Not saying that this distance should be your measure-this is me. I practice ISHTA yoga which is also gentle but can be as challenging as you choose it to be. It allowed me to stretch and loosen the tightness in and under my arm, across my chest, and down to my wrist. I would be shocked if you don't have that little burning that can streak down the arm and around the upper back: Cut nerves and lymph system trauma.The moment there is a hint of pain I can back off. I never push it. Learning to breathe through each motion allows me to ease into a deeper stretch each day. Glad to report I have full motion and can even do weight bearing postures without pain or weakness. It sounds like you're going to get it all going again. 99% is the want to and you've definitely got that. I'll call you Sparky. Don't let that spark of enthusiasm to get back the YOU you want to be go dim. :-D Jo

      1 comment

  • I'm feeling anxious about Thursday's first chemo treatment. Any advice or hope?

    Asked by anonymous

    Stage 2A Patient
    8 months ago 14 answers •
    • View all 14 answers
    • anonymous
      Patient

      Hey Karen!!! I remember my 1st chemo like it was yesterday. I was so nervous, but my sister was me, ad she was there for every treatment after, the nurses were wonderful ad they explained everything! Pretty soon, its almost like family. You will be great!!! You got this sister in pink!!! Its okay...

      more

      Hey Karen!!! I remember my 1st chemo like it was yesterday. I was so nervous, but my sister was me, ad she was there for every treatment after, the nurses were wonderful ad they explained everything! Pretty soon, its almost like family. You will be great!!! You got this sister in pink!!! Its okay too be nervous..pretty soon you will be the one comforting a "newbie" as ypu "her" walk through those doors. I met so many people..all were so helpful. So hang in there!! ;) my 1st chemo wad 4/6/12 and my last was 8/24/12. Its crazy...it all went by fast!! Really! Hugs from miles away!! ;)

      Comment
    • anonymous
      Learning About Breast Cancer

      Best of luck on your first chemo,you can do it!

      Comment

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