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Cancer Alternative Therapies |
Cancer Alternative TherapiesThe thought of alternative therapies in the treatment of cancer will flash at least once in the mind of every cancer patients and their loved ones.
Complementary and alternative therapies refer to the practice and products used besides the standard care. (Standard care is the method based on scientific evidence to treat cancer practiced by medical doctors and allied health care professionals).
For example acupuncture is a type of complementary medicine used along with other standard medical treatments to deal with the side effects of cancer treatment. Alternative medicine replaces the standard treatment to treat cancer.
For example some patients use specific diets to treat cancer instead of standard medications suggested by a specialist.
Patients with cancer use this option to- Ease the stress and worries related to cancer treatment.
- To comfort themselves and cope the side effects of the treatment like nausea, vomiting, pain and fatigue.
- Try to treat the cancer with a feeling that they are doing something for themselves.
Complementary and alternative medicines can be broadly classified in to five categories- Mind and body medicines – this includes meditation, hypnosis, biofeedback, yoga, imagery and creative outlets such as music, art or dance.
- Biologically based practices – uses things that are found naturally and includes herbal products and dietary supplements for example some special diets, herbs or vitamins.
- Manipulative and body based practices – this involves massage, chiropractic care (manipulation of joints and skeletal system), reflexology (use of pressure points in hands and feet).
- Energy medicine – body’s own energy is used as medicine for healing and wellness, for example reiki, tai chi and therapeutic touch.
- Whole medical system – this includes healing the body through ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicines, homeopathy and naturopathic medicines.
Integrative medicine (holistic approach to treat cancer) used for cancer treatment gives better results as it combines patients mind, body and spirit.
This involves learning to reduce stress and relax during chemotherapy.
Alternative cancer therapies work for some patients while are in vain for other patients.
Although conventional and alternative cancer treatments are gaining popularity as an alternative approach for cancer therapy, it is also important to keep in mind that natural supplements or products are not always safe, they may prove harmful many times if self administered or may even react with certain drugs, herbal medicine or food nutrients. Check with a specialist before using these treatments, to make sure that these modes of treatment do not interfere with the main standard treatment.
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