Most people don’t like to think bad things will happen to them. They move forward through life with little concern for the worst-case scenario. However, in terms of breast cancer, early detection is of utmost importance. It’s worth considering.
Especially during October when attention is on breast cancer awareness and honoring those who were taken by this deadly disease, it’s good to shift your focus back to your body and check in about breast cancer and whether or not it’s something of concern for you.
From diagnosis and beyond, having breast cancer is a long road that many women must walk. Viewing each part of the journey from an integrated perspective can be beneficial. There are conventional and naturopathic tools that when combined give an optimal chance of survival. In the case of breast cancer, knowledge is power.
Should I be worried about getting breast cancer?
It’s important to know your family health history. Although The American Cancer Society says that “most women who develop breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease,” they also state that women with a family history of breast cancer are at greater risk for developing the disease.
There are certain lifestyle choices that may or may not contribute to the development of the disease on an individual basis. Consider these factors in terms of your own lifestyle when determining whether or not to alter behaviors as a preventative measure in terms of breast cancer (source):
- Alcohol intake
- Being overweight
- Minimal physical activity
- Not having children
- Not breastfeeding
- Birth control
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Breast implants
Knowing the normal shape and size of your breasts is important information, especially if there are changes. Being aware of your own body through a self-exam (or even a breast examination by your doctor) is the first line of defense against breast cancer. Note any changes or abnormalities and report them to your doctor immediately.
Women should receive their first mammogram at age 40. Most women will be advised to receive an annual mammogram as a yearly tool to help detect and diagnose the presence of breast cancer. However, recommendations regarding how often to receive a mammogram differ, so always discuss how often you should be receiving a mammogram with your primary care provider. Knowing that women with dense breast tissue are at greater risk for breast cancer, a mammogram might prompt further testing and analysis for women with dense breast tissue.
Another proactive step you can take in understanding whether or not breast cancer could be of concern in your future is genetic testing. Testing can give you information about gene mutations you might have inherited that could indicate a greater propensity for the disease – especially if you are at risk (family history). Paired with genetic counseling, testing not only helps with the likelihood of breast cancer, but also helps you understand whether or not to seek additional diagnostics.
Both conventional and functional medical tools are helpful in creating a full picture of your health and helping you to determine the possibility of breast cancer in your future.
What do I do if I receive a positive diagnosis for breast cancer?
First, know that you are not alone.
Being diagnosed with breast cancer can leave you reeling. Figuring out the next steps and how to proceed with treatment is a daunting task. Naturopathic medicine works to restore your balance – mind, body, and spirit. A naturopathic doctor with expertise in oncology can help you navigate your treatment options. Both conventional and naturopathic wisdom are needed to survive breast cancer.
How do I manage my diagnosis, treatment and all my other responsibilities?
Managing your diagnosis and treatment options might feel overwhelming. During breast cancer treatment, it’s important to focus on the things you can control and let go of the things you cannot. Give yourself permission to be a human going through a difficult time. It is perfectly normal to not be able to handle all of the things you did before your diagnosis.
Stress management is important during treatment and will help to prevent recurrence in the future. Now is not the time to power through the pain and difficulty. Let yourself have rest, delegate tasks to others, have grace for yourself, be present, feel your feelings, and trust your inner wisdom.
What kind of life can I expect after cancer?
After a breast cancer diagnosis, many people start to look at their beliefs and how they want to live the rest of their life. Taking an all or nothing approach to treatment and beyond does not work. It’s important to stay open minded about the options you have as they are laid out before you. Both conventional and naturopathic medicine, especially when integrated, offer promising opportunities for your prognosis – through treatment and beyond.
Throughout the breast cancer journey, it’s helpful to have someone who offers an integrated perspective about your treatment and beyond to walk with you along the way.
Neighborhood Naturopathic uses holistic and natural medicine, proven treatments and alternative therapies to help your body heal. If you live in the Minneapolis/ St. Paul area and are curious about a naturopathic approach to your health or have questions about supplements, or IV Nutrient Therapy that might support your overall wellness, click here to schedule or call (612) 259-8529.
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