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Step 4: Analyze Findings and Make Decisions
Integrative Medicine;
Adding Comlemetary and Integrative Medicine (CAM) to Conventional
Treatment
It's important at this point in your research
to discuss the possibility of integrating CAM treatments
into your medical plan with your doctor. Complementary
medicine practices may not cure cancer, but
they will fortify the body's immune system and help reduce
mental and emotional stress as you go through treatment by
the oncology team. For instance, many cancer patients find
that the use of acupuncture or massage dramatically help lessen
their response to the nausea and fatigue associated with chemotherapy.
CAM treatments are offered from the following specialists:
- Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Pharmacologist or
Social Worker (Psychological and Emotional Therapy, Pain
& Fatigue Management)
- Pharmacologist, Psychiatrist for medication management
for these conditions
- Acupuncturist
- Chiropractor
- Nutritionist (Special Cancer Diets, Rapid Weight Loss
Control)
- Herbalist
- Complementary Medicine Physician
- Massage Therapist
- Meditation or other Relaxation Technique Teacher
- Clergy or other resource for Spiritual Practice and
Prayer
- Anesthesiologist (Pain Blocks)
- Neurologist (Pain Management)
- Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist (Chemotherapy Side
Effects)
- Music, Art, and Dance Therapists
Integrative medicine
This is what its name implies; a replacement
for conventional medicine rather than an addition to it. While
complementary medicine is not designed for cure, some intregrative
medicine approaches bring with them promises of cure (as yet
unproven). Some doctors are open to integrating CAM professionals,
while many are not. It's important to remember the decision
is yours.
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