Today, there are many ways to manage cancer symptoms and remove cancerous cells if the condition is detected early. A common approach to targeting and getting rid of tumors is surgery. At times, surgical procedures can even help diagnose cancer, determine the stage of the disease, and even prevent cancer. Cancer surgery can also provide relief from symptoms. This mode of treatment is often combined with other management options and therapies to deal with cancer.
Procedure
A typical surgery to target cancer involves the removal of cancerous masses from the body. The procedure usually involves the use of surgical tools to extract the tumor and healthy tissue around it. The surgeon might also remove a few lymph nodes in the area, which are then tested to check for cancer cells.
Types of surgical procedures
Over time, a variety of surgical methods have emerged that can target cancerous cells in unique ways, For instance, cryosurgery involves the use of cold material to freeze and eliminate cancerous cells, while electrosurgery involves the use of an electric current to destroy cancer cells. Another option is laser surgery, which uses light to shrink the tumor. Other types of surgeries include:
Mohs surgery: This procedure involves the removal of cancer layer by layer. As each layer is extracted, it is studied under the microscope for signs of cancer. The procedure is repeated until all the abnormal cells are removed. Mohs surgery is typically used for cancers on sensitive areas of the skin, such as around the eye.
Laparoscopic surgery: This is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a surgeon to make multiple small cuts in the body instead of one large cut. A tiny camera and surgical tools are inserted through the cuts, while an external monitor shows what the camera sees. The surgeon will use the images to guide the tools to remove cancer.
Robotic surgery: In this method, the surgeon sits away from the operating table and looks at a screen that shows a 3D image of the area being operated on. The surgeon uses controls to guide the robot, helping it use surgical tools to operate. The method helps surgeons remove cancer from hard-to-reach areas. This method comes with a relatively shorter recovery time.
Natural orifice surgery: This procedure lets surgeons operate on organs in the belly without making an incision through the skin. The surgeon usually passes surgical tools through a natural opening, like the mouth, vagina, or rectum. The goal of this surgery is to lower the risk of infection, pain, and other complications following the procedure.
Cost
The total cost of cancer treatment is about $150,000 on average, and one may spend anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000 annually on cancer treatment. However, the number can vary based on the type of management option, such as surgery. Other factors that might influence the cost of surgery are the technique, severity of the condition, number of treatments, and the extent of care required before and after the surgery. One could check with a healthcare professional for a more accurate estimate.
Doctors treat cancer using various methods, one of which is surgery. Depending on where the cancer is located, what stage it is at, and how much it has spread, a specific type of surgery may be recommended to manage or prevent the condition. Depending on the situation, the expert may sometimes even perform multiple surgeries. Knowing the different types of surgeries can help patients stay prepared and cope better in the long term.
Types of cancer surgery
Diagnostic surgery
Diagnostic surgery, as the name suggests, is used to diagnose cancer. When doctors need to find out if certain cells are cancerous, they use this surgery. It involves removing and testing a small tissue to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. The tests carried out on the tissue also help doctors identify the type of cancer and its stage.
Staging surgery
Staging surgery helps doctors determine how far the cancer has spread. It involves examining the cancer-affected parts of the body and its surrounding organs. In laparoscopy, a type of staging surgery, doctors use a small viewing tube with a camera for examination.
Preventive surgery
Doctors use preventive surgery to remove any tissue that is not cancerous but can develop into a cancerous tumor. One of the most common examples of preventive surgery is the removal of polyps from the colon. It is important to note that preventive surgery can reduce cancer risk but cannot assure complete prevention.
Curative surgery
Curative surgery is usually considered the primary treatment as it is done when the cancer is in its early stage. The procedure involves removing the cancerous tumor or growth. It is important to note that doctors can only use this surgery when the cancer is limited to one specific part of the body.
Debulking surgery
Doctors use debulking surgery to remove a part of the cancerous tumor and reduce its bulk. This procedure is useful if removing the entire tumor poses a risk of damaging other organs in the body.
Tips to prepare for cancer surgery
Talk to the doctor
Before the surgery, a patient should talk to the doctor and ask everything they wish to know about the procedure. They can also talk to a nurse in the hospital. Asking questions can help one stay better prepared for the surgery.
Stay informed about what to do
Individuals must also ask the doctor what they must do before and after the surgery. One can even ask the medical professionals what to expect once the procedure ends.
Try relaxation techniques
Trying relaxation techniques, such as meditating and listening to relaxing music, can help one cope with stress before the surgery. Talking to a close friend or family member can also help patients stay calm.
In recent years, cancer survival rates have increased tremendously thanks to advancements in cancer interventions. Among these treatments, surgery has emerged as an effective option that prevents the disease from progressing. However, there are certain side effects associated with cancer surgery, leaving patients tired and weak for some time afterward. To eliminate such side effects, it is important to prepare well for the surgical procedure and continue taking adequate care of oneself afterward.
Take the necessary pre-operative tests
Oncologists usually ask patients to take a few general body tests to ensure they are physically fit for the surgery. Some of these tests include the following-
Health experts may also suggest other tests based on one’s condition and requirements. One should ensure that all the necessary tests are taken before the surgery and submit the results to one’s doctor well in advance so that if the surgery has to be postponed for health reasons, there’s no last-minute hassle.
Have lean protein
Protein is essential for building strong muscles, which can help improve resilience during cancer surgery. But, red and processed meats must be strictly avoided, as they might worsen cancer symptoms. So, to minimize physical weakness, one should have sufficient lean protein, including eggs, poultry, venison, and plant-based protein (such as soybeans and lentils), before cancer surgery.
Regulate calorie intake
It’s important to follow a healthy meal plan before cancer surgery to minimize the risk of complications. One should also monitor one’s calorie intake closely when preparing for cancer surgery, replacing sugary and oily foods from the meal plan with nutrient-rich alternatives.
Have plenty of water
Staying hydrated is a must before the surgical procedure. But the solution isn’t to have plenty of water just before the procedure – one should have sufficient water regularly on the days preceding the surgery so that the body is well hydrated by the time the day of the procedure approaches. Other healthy fluids like soups and fresh fruit juices are also good.
Practice deep breathing
Deep breathing exercises clear one’s lungs and reduce susceptibility to pneumonia after surgery. That’s why it’s important to follow oncologists’ advice and practice deep-breathing exercises after being operated on for cancer.
Have lots of fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, carotenoids, and various essential elements. So, patients with cancer should incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables as much as possible in their meal plans after cancer surgery.
Seek help from professionals and loved ones
Having a strong support system is crucial when recovering from cancer because one needs adequate rest and care. So, one should delegate daily household chores and seek help and support from professionals, family members, and friends as required during this period.
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. There are various strains of HPV, or the human papillomavirus, which is usually the primary reason for cervical cancers. HPV is a common STD that can be prevented through a vaccine at an early age. Here are some of the symptoms of cervical cancer and its treatment options.
Signs and symptoms
Unusual bleeding
This is one of the most common signs of cervical cancer. The unusual bleeding can occur between menstrual period cycles, after menopause, or even after intercourse with a partner.
Pelvic pain
This is another common symptom usually experienced when the cancer cells start to spread to nearby organs and tissues. The metastasis of cancer cells leads to pain in the pelvic region.
Pain during intercourse
Just like pelvic pain, one can also experience pain or discomfort during intercourse, and this is known as dyspareunia. This can happen due to the tumor in the cervix.
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Heavy bleeding during a regular menstrual cycle should be noted as an abnormal symptom. It typically indicates an underlying health condition, like cervical cancer.
Unusual discharge
While vaginal discharge is normal, in cervical cancer, the discharge can be watery or bloody. It could also have some foul smell, which is not usual. This may point towards an advanced stage of cervical cancer.
Treatment options
The treatment options depend on various factors, like the cancer stage and other underlying health conditions that may affect the course of treatment. There are three options for the treatment of cervical cancer: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In some cases, a combination of all three is also used.
Surgery
This is an option used for tumors that have typically not grown beyond the cervix and can be surgically removed effectively from the region. Some factors that affect the option of surgery include the stage of the cancer and the desire to get pregnant. In the procedure, doctors can remove just the cancerous tumor, surgically remove the cervix, also known as trachelectomy, or surgically remove the cervix and the uterus, which is called hysterectomy.
Radiation therapy
In this type of therapy, doctors use powerful energy beams, which help kill cancer cells. This energy can come from X-rays, protons, or other energy sources. Usually, radiation therapy is combined with chemotherapy to help treat cancer when it has grown beyond the cervix. There are three ways in which radiation therapy can be given:
External beam radiation therapy involves directing the radiation beam at the affected area of the body.
Brachytherapy is a process in which the device is filled with radioactive material, which is then placed inside the vagina for a couple of minutes.
The third option is a combination of both external and internal therapies.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is usually given in combination with radiation therapy because this can enhance the effects of the treatment. Depending on the treatment’s progress, it can be increased or decreased.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that causes the skin to lose its natural color. It affects millions of people all over the world. Living with this condition can be tough, as various factors can trigger it. This is why it is important to know some ways in which one can manage the condition and prevent it from worsening. To help with that, here are a few tips to manage the symptoms of vitiligo.
Eat foods rich in antioxidants
Vitiligo is a condition that results in the depigmentation of the skin. One of the ways to prevent this is by consuming more antioxidants. These compounds help reduce the stress on the melanin cells, which are responsible for skin pigmentation. One can find antioxidants in several foods, such as nuts, seeds, citrus fruits, and berries. These are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have antioxidant properties. Incorporating these into one’s meals can help protect the skin cells and reduce the risk of depigmentation caused by vitiligo.
Avoid inflammatory foods
Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes loss of pigment, resulting in white patches on the skin. It is essential to follow a balanced meal plan rich in antioxidants and free from inflammatory foods to alleviate its symptoms. Inflammatory foods like sugary foods and drinks, white bread, white pasta, gluten, and highly processed foods can worsen the condition. Hence, it is best to avoid these foods and focus on consuming antioxidant-rich foods that can help boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.
Incorporate beta-carotene-rich foods
Quite a few studies and observations have shown that consuming foods with beta-carotene helps reduce the symptoms of vitiligo. Beta-carotene can also help strengthen the immune system, which helps with the condition. Beta-carotene is commonly found in yellow, orange, and green vegetables. So, one can include vegetables such as spinach, kale, tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, and lettuce to boost beta-carotene.
Use sunblock
Individuals with vitiligo must protect their skin from harsh sunlight. The depigmented areas are more susceptible to sunburn and skin damage, and vitiligo symptoms can be triggered by sunburn. To avoid that, individuals should apply sunscreen when stepping out. They should choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 25 and protection against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Besides that, individuals can also use other ways to avoid sun damage, like being in the shade and wearing broad hats and loose cotton clothes.
Avoid wounds and harsh chemicals
It is important to note that skin wounds, like sunburns, can worsen the symptoms of vitiligo. Therefore, individuals with vitiligo must take extra care to protect their skin from injury. Moreover, certain chemicals in skin products can also trigger the symptoms of vitiligo. Hence, using products specifically for sensitive skin is advisable to avoid adverse reactions.
By mindfully following the above tips, individuals can more effectively manage their vitiligo symptoms and maintain healthy skin.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder that causes loss of color in some areas of the skin. As a result, uneven white patches without any pigmentation start to develop. Some may develop only a few white spots, while others may have a more widespread loss of pigment. However, in both cases, the skin feels normal. There is no cure for this skin condition, although treatment may help stop its progression. Here’s what one needs to know.
Causes
Vitiligo is a type of autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system begins to attack healthy cells. In this case, the immune cells that produce melanocytes, which are responsible for producing melanin, start to die, resulting in a loss of melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to our skin, so the skin becomes lighter wherever the melanin-producing cells are attacked.
Over time, white patches start to appear. It is unknown why the immune system attacks the cells that produce the melanin. However, healthcare experts know certain factors can increase the risk of developing it. Some of the well-known risk factors include:
Symptoms
The symptoms usually start before the age of 30 years. But in some people, it can start even at an older age. Some of the common symptoms include the following.
Types
The type of vitiligo depends on how and where the patches of skin discoloration occur.
Treatment options
Since vitiligo is not curable, treatments are given by board-certified dermatologists with the following objectives.
A dermatologist may recommend prescriptions, light therapy, or skin graft and cell transplant surgery. In severe but rare cases, when a person loses nearly all of their natural skin color, depigmentation is done to remove the remaining color from the skin.
The term menopause is used to refer to the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. In most cases, this occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years. Around this time, periods become irregular before they finally stop. It is also a time when estrogen and progesterone levels drop, leading to several changes in the body. These are some early signs of menopause that may interfere with one’s daily life and must not be ignored.
Hot flashes and night sweats
Most women experience hot flashes during the day as a result of menopause. These are one to five-minute-long sensations of warmth, heat, sweating, flushing, or experiencing chills. When these occur at night, they are referred to as night sweats. They can significantly impact the quality of one’s life by interfering with daily activities and sleep. Although medical help can make symptom management easier, only one in four women seek professional advice for hot flashes.
Cognitive issues
Estrogen and progesterone are responsible for supporting memory and brain function among women. Thus, reduced levels of these hormones in the body can also cause brain fog and affect memory and concentration in menopausal women. This leads to frustration, affecting their productivity and outlook towards daily activities. In many cases, cognitive symptoms may further be exacerbated by poor sleep and other stressors. One should consult a professional to manage these early signs of menopause effectively.
Digestive changes
Estrogen is responsible for handling the sensitivity of the digestive tract. As its levels drop during menopause, one could experience new food sensitivities or have an increased risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This may be accompanied by food cravings, particularly for sugars and refined carbohydrates.
Another common experience many women go through during menopause is a changed perception of how things taste, especially sugar. This could increase their preference for sweeter foods. Further, since estrogen and progesterone levels are in a constant flux, this may lead to increased fluid retention or bloating during this stage.
Discomfort
The discomfort of menopause may also manifest in the form of physical pain. This can be of various types, such as:
Other common signs of menopause also include thinning hair, brittle nails, bladder incontinence, osteoporosis, and dizzy spells. Seeking professional help can aid in the management of these symptoms and help ease the menopausal transition.
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. During this time, a person usually goes 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. The ovaries gradually produce less estrogen as one ages, leading to irregular menstrual cycles. When the ovaries stop producing estrogen, menopause occurs. Once menopause begins, the fat cells start making most of the body’s estrogen. Here are details on its causes, symptoms, and treatments for menopause.
Causes of menopause
Menopause is a process that women experience wherein their ovaries no longer release an egg every month and the cycle of menstruation, marked by bleeding, no longer takes place. It usually begins after 40 years of age, but some may experience it earlier. Aging is the most common reason for natural menopause, but there are other reasons why one may experience it. Ovarian surgery, for example, may also be one of the reasons. Chemotherapy is another standard cancer treatment that can damage ovaries and lead to menopause. There are other reasons why the menstrual cycle may stop, like surgery, hormonal treatments, and radiation therapy, to name a few. But to consider a stage as menopause, one has to complete a year without menstrual bleeding.
Symptoms of menopause
As women approach menopause, here are some common signs they may experience:
Hot flashes
Hot flashes, also known as vasomotor symptoms (VMS), are the most common symptoms. They involve a sudden warmth spreading across one’s upper body. These are accompanied by blushing, a racing heart, and sweating, and the hot flashes can vary from mild to severe.
Changes in sensitive areas
Menopausal women may also experience irregular or missed periods, heavier bleeding than usual, vaginal dryness, or sore or tender breasts.
Dryness
Menopause can lead women to feel dryness in their skin, eyes, or mouth.
Sleep issues
They may have trouble falling asleep, may experience night sweats, or even cold flashes during the night.
Emotional changes
They may experience bursts of emotions, such as irritability, anger, crankiness, or even depression.
Urinary urgency
They may get the urge to pee more often than earlier and see changes in their libido.
There are also other signs like:
Hair thinning or hair loss
Headache
Fatigue
Inability to focus
Temporary memory lapses
The severity, frequency, and duration of the symptoms vary from person to person. Some may see mild signs, while others may have to seek professional help to manage severe symptoms. Some symptoms, like hot flashes, may get better with time.
Homeopathy treatments for menopause
Homeopathy is an alternative treatment that can help women in menopause to manage many of their symptoms. Most commonly, homeopathy effectively regulates, stabilizes, or addresses the following symptoms:
Hot flushes, especially with profuse sweating
Head congestion
Mood alterations or emotional ups and downs
Skin problems
Not feeling alert or active
Worrying excessively
Backaches or migraines
Outbursts of emotions like anger
Often, women may also feel sluggish, weak or weary during menopause, experience persistent irritation in moods, or even lose interest in normal activities, which can be helped with homeopathy. There are a variety of homeopathy remedies, so one should consult a healthcare professional to ensure they receive the right homeopathy treatment to fight their particular symptoms.
Menopause is a phase following the last menstrual cycle. It is a result of a natural decline in reproductive hormones, which typically happens as women reach their 40s and 50s. There are many symptoms associated with menopause, and night sweats are common in this period. It is essential to recognize and address this symptom and manage it. So, here are some surprising facts about menopausal night sweats one should know.
1. Night sweats may differ from hot flashes
Research presented at the North American Menopause Society on the findings of night sweats and hot flashes suggested that night sweats may cause a higher level of stress and discomfort than hot flashes. Further, hot flashes could occur during the day or night but typically have shorter periods of sweating. Night sweats, however, are known to last a lot longer and lead to excessive perspiration.
2. Triggers are not yet known
The exact trigger for night sweats remains unknown. It could be triggered due to declining estrogen levels, but there is not enough evidence to establish the link conclusively. Some believe that when the ovaries stop producing estrogen, there is an increase in the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which sets off the brain neurons that help control the body’s temperature. This may lead to night sweats as well as sleep deprivation associated with menopause.
3. Night sweats may last 10 years
About 75% of those who go through menopause may experience night sweats and hot flashes. However, some women may start experiencing these symptoms years before their last menstrual cycle. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that some in their 80s continue to experience night sweats.
4. Menopausal night sweats can be managed
Although menopause-induced night sweats may not have a cure, there are ways to deal with this symptom. Here are a few things one can try:
Slow breathing: Certain breathing techniques can help manage night sweats to some extent. For instance, taking six to eight breaths per minute for 15 minutes twice a day could help reduce the severity and frequency of nighttime sweating.
Staying active: Regular exercise can help in managing both hot flashes and night sweats, in addition to improving overall health. One can start slowly with a short, simple workout routine and then move on to an elaborate exercise regimen.
Controlling immediate environment: One can ensure their living space is cool, especially at bedtime, to deal with sudden night sweats and changes in body temperature. Using bedding that can regulate air and temperature, like a cooling mattress, and keeping the air conditioning on at night can help the room stay cool.
Nevertheless, upon experiencing any discomfort, one should consult a doctor to find suitable ways to manage menopause and its symptoms.
Hot flashes and night sweats are two notable signs of menopause and perimenopause. Generally, hot flashes cause sudden episodes of heat that spread through the face, chest, and neck. When hot flashes occur at night, it causes night sweats. Both symptoms result from significant changes in hormone levels, specifically estrogen and progesterone. While stopping hormonal changes is impossible, one can manage the effects of hot flashes and sweats with these tips and feel better:
Reduce the room’s temperature
Even a slight increase in core body temperature can trigger hot flashes and night sweats. One way to manage core body temperature is to make the room cooler. Individuals can do this by turning down the thermostat, switching on the air conditioner, installing a fan, opening a window, or sleeping on a cooling gel pad.
Wear breathable clothes
Clothes made using synthetic fabrics trap body heat and do not absorb sweat or let it evaporate. Wearing such clothes can not only cause discomfort but also trigger hot flashes. Therefore, one should wear breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, muslin, and bamboo. Loose and lightweight clothing is the best because it keeps the body cool and allows sweat to evaporate from the skin during night sweats.
Avoid spicy food
Spicy foods naturally increase body temperature because they often contain peppers in large quantities. The capsaicin chemical in peppers activates the nervous system, increasing the core body temperature. And as the body feels warmer, night sweats and hot flashes are more likely to occur.
Eat foods containing soy
Soy-based foods are known to have a high percentage of a plant-based estrogen called isoflavones. Daidzein, a type of isoflavone, can transform gut bacteria into equol. This compound can lower the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats. Therefore, including soy-based foods in one’s meals is a good idea during menopause and perimenopause. Some famous examples include tofu, soymilk, edamame, soy nuts sprouts, miso, tempeh, natto, and soy sauce.
Perform cardio exercises
Cardio exercises not only support the heart but also help manage hot flashes and night sweats. A well-planned routine of low-to-mild-intensity cardio workouts can improve these symptoms. If someone does not prefer cardio exercises, they can consider aerobics. Regular aerobic exercise and sustained activities like walking and jogging can also lower the frequency of hot flashes and night sweats.
Take up yoga
Yoga can help manage the night sweats and hot flashes that often disrupt one’s sleep pattern during menopause. Incorporating yoga into one’s routine can also lower stress levels, improve mental health, and provide several other long-term benefits. However, one must perform yoga correctly and not stop it midway. Practicing yoga for at least 20 weeks is usually recommended to experience successful results.
Recent Posts
Most Read