If you have cancer, the right oncology doctor is vital for your welfare. Cancer does not have to rule your life, but it is something you must take seriously. If your doctor diagnoses the disease early, you have a good chance of overcoming it. The severity of your condition and the tissues and organs it affects will determine the type of treatment you have. Your oncologist has the knowledge and training to formulate an effective plan.
What to look for in an oncology team
An oncologist focuses on the diagnosis, care and treatment of all types of cancer. Patients want a doctor that has experience working with patients who have had same cancer as what they have. Patients also need a physician with compassion and determination to beat this disease. Look for caregivers who are up-front but are willing to explore all viable options in their treatment. A person with cancer should explore different oncologists in the area and find out which one meets their needs.
Surgery
When the cancer is confined to a small area and is not spreading, surgery may be the right primary treatment. Here, the oncology team will aim to remove as much of the cancer as possible. This could include part or all of an organ or other tissues. Before the patient goes in for surgery, the oncologist will weigh the pros and cons of this approach. Surgery is the most common type of cancer treatment.
Chemotherapy
With this type of treatment, the doctor will use drugs to kill cancer cells. The number of chemotherapy treatments and length between each session will vary from patient to patient. The oncology team will rarely use chemotherapy to treat stage 1 cancer. Instead, this method is most effective for more advanced types of the disease. The doctor may use chemotherapy to treat a wide variety of cancers, including breast cancer.
Radiation
Radiation uses energy beams such as X-rays or protons to kill cancer. There are two ways an oncology doctor will administer radiation: internally and externally. The doctor may use a machine to deliver the beams from outside the person’s body. Or, the oncologist may put the beams inside the person’s body. Like chemotherapy, the doctor may give the person radiation therapy in several doses.
A combination of methods
Often, one of these three treatments may be a secondary form of treatment. Beforehand, the doctor may use something else. For example, chemotherapy or radiation may follow surgery. In other cases, surgery may come after another type of treatment. The oncologist may use two or more methods if the first tactic was unsuccessful.
Doing what is right for your health
Your mind can be at ease knowing that the oncology staff knows what you need to beat the disease. When you first meet with your oncologist, the two of you will talk about these options. The doctor will describe the benefits and drawbacks of each. Together, you can decide what makes the most sense and move forward with determination. If you have any concerns or questions about your care, talk to your doctor today.
Get more information about Lindenberg Cancer & Hematology Center in Marlton at https://lindenbergcancer.com.
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