|
|
|
 |
|
| Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer |
What Should You Ask Your Doctor About Colorectal Cancer? |
|
It is important to have frank, open discussions with your cancer care
team. They want to answer all of your questions, so that you can make
informed treatment and life decisions. For instance, consider asking
these questions:
- Where is my cancer located?
- Has my cancer spread beyond the primary site?
- What is the stage of my cancer, and what does that mean in
my case?
- What treatment choices do I have?
- What do you recommend and why?
- What risks or side effects are there to the treatments you
suggest?
- Will I need a colostomy? Will it be permanent?
- What are the chances my cancer will come back with these
treatment plans? What would we do if that happens?
- What should I do to be ready for treatment?
- What can I do to reduce the side effects of
treatment?
- Should I follow a special diet?
- What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
Along with these sample questions, be sure to write down some
of your own. For instance, you might want to know about recovery times
so you can plan your work schedule. Or you may want to ask about second
opinions or about clinical trials for which you may qualify.
Revised: 03/05/2008
|
|
|
|
|
