Alternative treatments and herbal medicines for breast cancer

Cancer requires scrupulous medical treatment and surgery. However, some alternative therapies can play an additional role in their care.

Herbal Medicine

Herbalists have long recommended tropical periwinkle to treat breast cancer and other malignancies. Indeed, a vinca alkaloid vincristine is used to make a powerful chemotherapeutic agent. Oncologists stress, however, that this drug should be used only under medical caresupervision, rather than resorting to vinca herbal extracts, which can be highly toxic.

Meditation, self hypnosis and visualization

Studies show that women with advanced breast cancer participating in support group sessions that include these techniques have longer survival rates than those who do not. Scientists have not yet been able to explain this effect, but some theorize that the methods to mobilize the immune system to fightfurther spread of cancer.

Nutritional Therapy

Some nutritionists recommend daily supplements of beta-carotene (precursor of vitamin A) and vitamins C and E, both to help prevent cancer and slow its growth. However, studies suggest that foods rich in these antioxidants are more effective. Good sources of beta-carotene are orange fruits and green vegetables and yellow and orange, vitamin C, lots of fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits and bellpeppers, vitamin E, wheat germ, legumes, fish and poultry. Although the role of other components of the diet remains controversial, some studies suggest that a diet low in fat may reduce the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. Such a scheme is necessary to limit the intake of all fats, especially those of animals, as animal protein, while increasing high-fiber foods such as whole grain products and fruits and vegetables. Other therapists and nutrition of someNaturopaths may recommend other restrictions extreme macrobiotic diets low in calories for people with breast cancer. oncologists caution that these diets should be avoided because it does not provide enough calories, protein and other nutrients the body needs for recovery or to avoid the waste that occurs in advanced cancer. Yog regular practice of yoga, meditation and other relaxation techniques can help relieve stress and anxiety caused by cancer, whichIn turn, stimulates the immune system function.

Personal care

Increasingly, women are expected role in the decision to beach the overall process. This has to be properly informed and not hesitating to question your doctor and express your concerns. Under the best case, a diagnosis of breast cancer is psychologically devastating. Join a support group such as American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery program, or just talking with women who haverecovered from breast cancer can be safe. Concern about physical appearance after a mastectomy are normal. However, women who undergo immediate breast reconstruction are generally relieved that fits well with a prosthesis, you can use most of their clothes and no one can say that they have had this surgery surgery. Initially, the use of a temporary prosthesis as normal bra cotton lint, or one that is slightly larger to accommodatebandages. this lake in the hospital with you to avoid the stress of finding something to wear for the trip home. After healing is complete, plans to buy a permanent prosthesis. Some departments selling underwear normal breast implants, but feel more comfortable and find a wider selection at a specialty shop. Ensure that different types of Tryon. Prices vary, but many of the policies of Medicare and insurance cover at least part of the cost. If you can not find a ready-made prosthesis that looks and feels good, invest in a measure to exactly match the profile of the breast.

A prosthesis is usually not necessary after a lumpectomy, but a bra should be worn day and night for several days after surgery to prevent traction of the wound and help return the form within the previous year. self-help measures can help minimize common complications that affect the arm and hand on the side of the mastectomy. To minimize swelling,> The exercise of the arm, when the surgeon says it's good. Lift as high as you can comfortably several times a day to promote the flow of sap. In addition, "walk" your fingers up a wall as high as possible and do isometric exercises or pumping, hand exercises like squeezing a rubber ball. If the arm swelling persists, consult your doctor to keep elastic sleeve to reduce swelling and improve the flow of lymph. If the lymph nodes were removed, the arm and hand on that sidemore vulnerable to infection. It is best to avoid anything that restricts or burdens them. Wear loose clothing and go see him and the bag with the opposite arm. Also a blood test or blood pressure measured in the opposite arm. Try to minimize the cuts and injuries, for example, use an electric razor if you shave the armpit hair, wear gloves for gardening and other tasks, and use extra caution when cutting nails and cuticles. If you get a cut or burn, immediately washwith soap and water and apply an antiseptic cream, plus an antibiotic. Consult your doctor immediately if you develop an infection.

Other causes of breast symptoms

Many women experience swelling and tenderness of the breast as part of premenstrual syndrome. benign fibrocystic breast are also common. Breastfeeding mothers often develop mastitis, a bacterial infection of the breast.

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