Cancer treatments can keep tumors from growing or causing symptoms, and they can cure some patients whose cancer is in the early stages. Some treatments may stop working or reach a level where they can no longer be treated. The cancer is now advanced.
The length of your life depends on many factors, such as how far the cancer has spread. It also depends on what type of cancer you have. You should know what to do if your cancer has spread so that you make the right decisions.
When oncologist advises against chemo
Many people have been shocked when their oncologist told them that it's now time to stop the chemotherapy. This is a difficult decision. You can make this decision if chemo side effects are not improving and your cancer has reached a very advanced stage.
Your oncologist could also tell you your treatment isn’t working, and that you have little chance of curing the cancer. This is most common with solid tumor cancers such as lung or breast cancer.
Despite the fact that many people still have cancer, they continue to get chemotherapy. As part of a treatment plan, chemotherapy is used to shrink cancerous tumors. If chemo does not work, your doctor may suggest other therapies or suggest clinical trial to test new ones.
Some side effects can occur when your chemo treatment doesn't work. These include fatigue, memory issues, and fatigue. These side effects can persist for many months or even years after treatment. Your doctor may suggest cognitive exercises, which can help to retrain and improve concentration.
It can be difficult to find a new treatment if you have had a bad response to chemo. But don't give up! Exercise, healthy eating, and pain medications are all things that you can do to improve your health.
Signs that chemo isn't working
Another reason your cancer might be in the advanced stages is that your cancer has stopped responding to treatments. It's a problem that is common with cancers resistant to drugs. This is one of the main reasons why researchers are looking for better treatments.
This is because cancer cells can withstand the effects of treatments, allowing them to grow and multiply. Cancer cells can eventually no longer kill themselves.
Your cancer could be advanced if your cancer is spreading and you're experiencing other serious symptoms. These include bleeding or a severe loss of body weight. These signs can include severe weakness, difficulty breathing, or pain in your arms, legs, neck or back.
The doctor might also recommend other treatments, such as a radiation therapy that can reduce the growth of cancer cells. Radiation treatment can be used for cancer that spreads to other parts such as brain or bones.
FAQ
How can I make sure my family has access to quality health care?
Most states have a department that provides affordable health care. Some states also have programs to cover low-income families with children. You can contact your state's Department of Health for more information about these programs.
What are the three types?
The first system, which is traditional and where patients are not allowed to choose who they see for their treatment, is the most popular. They will go to hospital B if they have an emergency, but they won't bother if there is nothing else.
The second system, which is fee-for-service, allows doctors to earn money based upon how many operations and tests they perform. If they aren't paid enough, they won’t do extra work for you, and you’ll pay twice as.
The third system pays doctors according to the amount they spend on care, not by how many procedures performed. This encourages doctors and patients to choose less costly treatment options such as talk therapies over surgery.
What are the different health care services?
Patients should know that they can access quality healthcare at all times. No matter whether you require an urgent appointment or routine check-ups, we are available to help.
There are many types of appointments available, including outpatient and emergency procedures, walk-ins, same day surgery, same-day surgeries, and emergency department visits. We offer home care visits to those who live far from our clinic. If you feel uncomfortable coming to our office, we will make sure you receive prompt treatment at your nearest hospital.
Our team includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, as well as other professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional patient service. Our goal is to make each visit as painless and convenient as possible.
What is the point of medical systems?
Many people living in poor countries lack basic healthcare facilities. Many people who live in these areas are affected by infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis, which can lead to premature death.
In developed countries, the majority of people have routine checkups and see their general physicians for minor illnesses. Yet, many people suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Statistics
- Foreign investment in hospitals—up to 70% ownership- has been encouraged as an incentive for privatization. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Price Increases, Aging Push Sector To 20 Percent Of Economy". (en.wikipedia.org)
- Consuming over 10 percent of [3] (en.wikipedia.org)
- For the most part, that's true—over 80 percent of patients are over the age of 65. (rasmussen.edu)
- The healthcare sector is one of the largest and most complex in the U.S. economy, accounting for 18% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020.1 (investopedia.com)
External Links
How To
How to Find Home Care Facilities
People who require assistance at home can use home care facilities. Home care facilities are available for elderly and disabled persons, as well as those with chronic diseases such Alzheimer's. These facilities provide services like personal hygiene, meal preparations, laundry, cleaning and medication reminders. They also offer transportation. They often work with rehabilitation specialists, social workers and medical professionals.
You can find the best home care services provider by asking friends, family and/or reading reviews on the internet. After you have identified a few providers, you can inquire about their experience and qualifications. It is important to find a provider who can work flexible hours in order to fit your schedule. Also, check if they offer 24/7 emergency response.
Ask your doctor or nurse to refer you. If you're not sure where to start, try searching the internet for "home health care" and "nursing house". You can use websites like Yelp and Angie's List or HealthGrades to compare nursing homes.
To get more information, call your local Area Agency on Aging and Visiting Nurse Service Association. These organizations will be able to provide you with a list containing agencies in your local area that are specialized in home care services.
It is crucial to find a quality home care agency, as many charge very high fees for patients. In fact, some agencies can charge up to 100% of an individual's monthly income. This is why it is important to select an agency that has been highly rated by The Better Business Bureau. Get references from past clients.
Some states require home care agencies registered with the State Department of Social Services. Find out the requirements for agency registration in your area by contacting your local government.
Consider these factors when looking for a homecare agency.
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Be wary of any company that asks you to pay upfront before receiving services.
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It is important to find a trustworthy and established company.
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For those who are paying out-of-pocket for insurance, make sure you have proof.
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Check that your state licenses the agency you are about to hire.
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Get a written contract that outlines all costs involved with hiring an agency.
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Confirm that the agency provides follow-up visits after discharge.
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Ask for a list if credentials and certifications.
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Don't sign anything until you have read it.
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Read any fine print carefully.
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Check if the agency is bonded and insured.
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Ask how many years the agency has been in business.
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Verify that the State Department of Social Welfare has licensed the agency.
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Find out if complaints have been filed against the agency.
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Call the local government agency that regulates homecare agencies.
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It is important to ensure that staff members answering the phones are qualified to answer any questions you may have about homecare.
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Ask your lawyer or accountant for tax advice on the use of home-based care.
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Always obtain at least three quotes for every agency providing home care services.
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The lowest bid is the best but you should not settle for $30 an hour.
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Be aware that you may be required to pay for more than one visit to a local home care agency each day.
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Always read the contract carefully before signing it.