Cancer Treatment
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- Q Why would I need an ostomy after cancer treatments?
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Most ostomies for cancer survivors are done during the first stages of surgical treatment to remove the cancer. However, some may be done months or years later, if there are changes to tissue that was treated with radiation. If cancer affects the... Full Answer
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- Q How will my life change after an ostomy?
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A person with an ostomy can lead a normal life. However, there may be a need to think or do some activities differently. Work with your healthcare team to identify ways you can make any needed adjustments in areas such as the following: Work:... Full Answer
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- Q How may an ostomy affect my ability to take medicines?
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Inform your pharmacist if you have an ostomy. There are certain medications that can cause difficulties with a colostomy or urostomy. Colostomy: Medication-induced constipation can be a problem. Sedatives and pain medications are... Full Answer
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- Q How will an ostomy affect my sex life?
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There may be feelings of embarrassment because of an ostomy. Some survivors fear rejection from a partner. In most cases, the partner is likely to feel relieved to have you home and not be concerned about these types of changes. Try to have an... Full Answer
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- Q What is a surgical oncologist?
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Surgical oncologists are surgeons who specialize in the surgical management of specific types of cancer. Surgical oncologists have an advanced level of expertise to treat many different types of cancer, including: Bone Bladder Brain Breast... Full Answer
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- Q Is there a cure for cancer?
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While science has yet to find one magic cure for cancer, the breakthroughs in both its detection and treatment mean that the options your medical team can offer for your care are better than ever. Medical research has found ways to identify... Full Answer
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- Q How can cancer treatment affect fertility?
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About half of all people diagnosed with cancer in their reproductive years receive treatments that can impair fertility. Radiation treatment, for example, can make men produce less semen, and give them erection issues. Chemotherapy and hormone therapies... Full Answer
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- Q What should I avoid if I have neutropenia due to cancer treatment?
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If you are neutropenic, this means that your white blood cells (WBC) are very low and your body has trouble fighting infection. Therefore: Avoid people with colds or infections. Avoid large crowds (stores, malls, etc.). If you must be in a crowd,... Full Answer
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- Q What is a Mahurkar catheter for cancer treatment?
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A Mahurkar catheter is a large, semi-flexible hollow tube (catheter) used for removing apheresis (certain parts from whole blood). The Mahurkar catheter is best suited for the rapid withdrawal and return of blood necessary for apheresis (the... Full Answer
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- Q Where on the body is a Mahurkar catheter for cancer treatment placed?
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The Mahurkar catheter is usually placed just under the collarbone and threaded into a major blood vessel in the upper part of the chest. If it is a one-day procedure the catheter may be placed in a large blood vessel in the groin. Full Answer
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