Understanding Your Treatments

Communications

Throughout the course of your illness, keep track of all questions that come to mind. Write them down because eventually you, your family and friends are going to want answers. Put the two or three most important questions at the top of your list, since time with your doctors or nurses may be limited. Also list anything that occurs to you, including symptoms, odd feelings or anything you find out of the ordinary. Make sure a member of your medical team reads all of your questions and concerns, because he or she may notice something that is important than you have overlooked. 
It is helpful to have a member of your family or a close friend accompanies you to the clinic to help you ask questions and understand and remember answers. It can also be helpful to write down the answers to your questions

Here are some additional subjects to discuss with your doctor

• What type of cancer do I have?
• What is the stage or extent of my cancer?
• What treatment do you recommend and why?
• What is the goal of treatment; cure or control of my symptoms?
• What are the possible risks or side effects of treatment?
• What are the pros and cons of my treatment?
• Are there other treatments for me to consider?
• How often will I need to come in for treatment or tests?
• How long will my treatments last?
• What if I miss a treatment?
• What life changes do I have to plan for (work, family, etc.)?
• What are the names of the drugs I will take? What are they for?
• What other drugs or treatments may I have to take?
• How will you know that my treatment is working?
• Why do I need a blood test and how often?
• Who will coordinate my entire treatment program?
• What symptoms or problems should I report right away?
• If I do not feel sick, does that mean the treatment is not working?
• What are the chances that my cancer may recur (come back) with the treatment programs we have discussed? What can I do to be ready for treatment?
•  Will I still be able to have children after treatment?
•  Are there any special foods I should or should not eat?
•  Can I drink alcoholic beverages?
•  What costs will I have?
•  What is the best time to call you if I have a question?
•  What other resources are available to me?

Choosing a doctor

If Lymphoma is diagnosed or suspected your family doctor will refer you to a specialist most likely a haematologist or sometimes an oncologist. For some patients before they start on a treatment plan they will consider having a second opinion about the diagnosis and treatment plan. If you opt for a second opinion, remember that you should have a complete copy of your medical records (original x-rays, pathology, scans and reports) delivered to the consulting doctor, preferably before your appointment.

Participation in your care

Work closely with your doctor, ask questions and explore all of your options. If you have concerns about your physician, discuss them. If these concerns cannot be resolved, ask for a referral to another doctor. Many people also find it helpful to ask their doctor if they can speak with other patients that the doctor has treated, to know how that person felt, and find out what that person may have done to help them get through treatments and dealing with the illness.

What are my rights as a patient?

You should feel comfortable with your healthcare team as this will assist your peace of mind as you start to understand your diagnosis and consequent tests and treatments. Doctors interpret things differently and communicate them to their patients differently as well. Even if you are absolutely comfortable with your physician, it cannot hurt to gain additional reassurances that all of your options have been explored. 
Additional medical opinions may provide alternative treatment options. And with new treatments and clinical trials being constantly funded and approved, you may find the one doctor who can make a difference in your prognosis.