How to Explore Complementary Medicine for Breast Cancer Treatment

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Complementary medicine is therapy that is used in addition to, rather than instead of, traditional treatment methods. Complementary medicine can include visualization and meditation, as well as acupuncture and nutrition. Breast cancer patients who are suffering from the malignant tumors that define the disease have a wealth of complementary options available to them.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Learn about complementary medicine at the Web site for the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (see Resources below).
Step 2

Choose to take control of your treatment. Many cancer patients decide to incorporate complementary medicine techniques so that they have a way of fighting back. Scientists may not agree on the physical benefits of these techniques, but the mental benefits can be empowering.
Step 3

Explore the types of complementary therapy that your hospital offers. This can make seeking complementary therapies more convenient and easier to incorporate into your daily routine.
Step 4

Know that complementary medicine can help relieve symptoms of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It's also possible to reduce pain and nausea through techniques such as deep breathing, yoga and meditation.
Step 5

Look into acupuncture. This technique can help with pain management, fatigue, hot flashes and nausea. Some insurance companies will reimburse all or part of the cost of an acupuncture treatment plan.
Step 6

Consider adding hypnosis and massage to your treatment plan. Hypnosis can help calm strained nerves, while massage calms painfully tense muscles.

Tips & Warnings

Ask your doctor if he would like to speak to your complementary medicine practitioner. You can locate a list of practitioners at the Web site for National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (see Resources below).
Visit the Web site for the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to find out how employees suffering from cancer are affected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (see Resources below).
A cancer diagnosis can make you feel helpless and lead to negative or depressing thoughts. Incorporating complementary medicine into your treatment plan is a good way to regain some control. You are fully in control with techniques such as meditation, yoga and reiki.

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