How to Prepare for Laser Light Therapy

Laser light therapy rests on the notion that high-intensity light can shrink or destroy tumors. Due to the precision of the lasers, it can be a particularly beneficial treatment for those with superficial skin cancers or tumors on the linings of organs. In clinical trials, it has shown promise in treating lung and esophageal cancers. While laser light therapy may be effective in treating cancers on its own, it is usually used in combination with another form of cancer treatment.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find out whether you're a good candidate for laser light therapy. This type of treatment is used mostly for patients with extremely early stages of cancer before more aggressive therapies are pursued.

2. Check how often you'll be required to have laser light therapy. Some forms of laser therapy, such as photodynamic therapy, are used only twice, whereas other types of laser therapy require several rounds of treatment.

3. Determine where you will go to receive your treatment. Patients who live in smaller towns may need to make a trip to the nearest large city to access facilities with laser equipment.

4. Eat at least 3 well-balanced meals per day both before and after your treatment. Being properly nourished may increase the effectiveness of the treatment and may reduce your recovery time.

5. Talk with your doctor about your long-term care plan. You'll need to know if laser light therapy is the only treatment you will be pursuing at the moment or whether you'll need an additional form of cancer treatment.

Tips & Warnings

• As you prepare for laser light therapy, remember that you have the right to participate in any decisions concerning your treatment. If you are unable to make decisions on your own, you have the right to designate another individual to make decisions for you.
• Ask your doctor what side effects are expected as a result of your treatment. The most common side effects of laser light therapy are nausea, constipation and soreness around the treatment site, but your side effects may depend largely on which area of your body will be receiving treatment.
• It is important to understand that you may experience psychological changes as you prepare for cancer treatment. These changes are normal, but speaking to your doctor about your concerns may help alleviate your fears. Ask your doctor about cancer support groups in your area where you can talk through your emotions and get support from others who are undergoing cancer therapy.

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