How to Handle a Cancer Diagnosis: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor

It can happen to any of us. If you have recently received a cancer diagnosis, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what your next steps are. This is a common and understandable feeling. But understanding the next steps to take can help to combat feelings of helplessness and give you a concrete plan of attack. But where to start? Here are 5 questions to ask your doctor.

1. In cases like mine, how often do people recover?

You may be surprised to find that spotting the cancer early gives you a greater chance of managing it before it becomes fatal.  Getting facts like these in percentages will help you come to a better understanding of your chances for recovery. And keeping a positive attitude is another way to cope with the illness, so be sure to keep your eyes focused on the bright side.

2. What treatment options are there to eradicate this cancer?

This is an important question to ask, as you want to be sure you understand all the options available to you. In certain cases, surgery might be your best option. But depending on the location and how widespread the cancer is, chemotherapy may be better in your case. Do not be afraid to ask for all the options there are so you can make a well-educated decision.

3. What kind of alternative treatments are there?

An aspect that your doctor may not discuss unless directly asked has to do withalternative cancer treatments. There is a strong case to be made for alternative treatments, which have been shown to have a good success rate. While science has yet to catch up with why and how these alternative therapies work, there are patients who swear by their effectiveness.

4. What are the next steps that you should take? And what should you be doing at home?

Remember that information and action helps to fight feelings of overwhelm and fear. Ask your doctor for specific steps you should be taking, whether related to diet or sleep. Ask him / her about insurance policies and coverage, as well as what aspects of your daily routine are okay to continue and what you should now avoid. 

5. What type of physical discomfort should I expect?

Knowing what changes your body will be going through during this time will help you handle them with a measure of calm. Make sure to ask about any discomfort or pain you should expect from here on, as well as while you undergo treatment. Discuss pain medications and any other coping mechanisms that your doctor might suggest.

These 5 starter questions to ask your doctor will help you as you begin your cancer journey. None of the above questions are easy. But try to remain upbeat as you consider your options. You may wish to bring a family member with you for support as you talk with your doctor. You could also provide them with this list of questions if you think you may be too overwhelmed to ask your doctor yourself.

It’s natural at this point to feel overwhelmed, depressed, or pessimistic about your chances. Everyone copes with the emotions surrounding cancer in their own way. Going to a counselor could be a good way to deal with your feelings so that you can maintain healthy relationships with your friends and family. While your situation is unique, there are countless others who have been in this same situation you now face. Consider joining a cancer support group. Talking to others who are cancer survivors can help you come to a deeper understanding of how to handle your sickness.

Other ideas include finding a source of spiritual strength, keeping a journal, and making sure to relax and do fun things. Your life hasn’t ended. There is more beyond this bump in the road.