Page 122 - LIVESTRONG Digital Guidebook

“This diagnosis was not scary because I have lived with cancer

for 22 years. A second diagnosis is not nearly as frightening as

the first. I am back at work—telecommuting and flying across

the country, full time. No cancer can get us down.” —MARK K.

AFTEREFFECTS TREATING AFTEREFFECTS
AND DAY-TO-DAY CHALLENGES
Talk with your health care team about what afteref-
In the past, treatments for many types of cancer fects you might expect for your type of cancer and
were more severe than today. If you received can- treatment. Ask your provider to describe possible
cer treatment many years ago, you may already be symptoms. Find out how to get treatment early.
living with aftereffects.
It may also be helpful to talk with other cancer
Aftereffects of treatment can affect day-to-day survivors. There are likely to be others who have been
life activities. Some problems start during treatment through similar experiences. Sharing information
and continue after treatment is done. Other late might help you find new ways to manage challenges.
effects may not appear for months after treatment
has been completed. Your oncology team will probably continue to
see you for a period after treatment is done. Your
Keep track of unexplained symptoms and prob- health care will then be returned to your primary care
lems. This will help you talk with your health care physician for most matters. However, many providers
team and loved ones. Work with your health care are not trained in the aftereffects of cancer. Contact
team to develop a health care follow-up plan that your oncology provider if you begin to have problems
will be part of your Survivorship Care Plan. that may be related to cancer or its treatment.

Examples of day-to-day challenges might include:
• Difficulty working due to physical or
emotional issues
• Changes in relationships with loved ones,
friends or coworkers
• Impact on self-esteem
• Difficulty getting health or life insurance
• Difficulty communicating concerns to others
• Financial stress

LIVESTRONG means taking an active role in your own health care.

See the LIVESTRONG Guidebook Planner and Journal pages:
After Treatment

Read more about living with cancer at LIVESTRONG.org/WeCanHelp
• Aftereffects of Cancer Treatment
• Communicate With Your Health Care Team
• Body Image

122 L I V E S T R O N G G U I D E B O O K www.LIVESTRONG.org/WeCanHelp