Ask Amelia: Dec 2021
Thank you for continuing to send us your questions! As always, below we are sharing with the intention to be helpful. We encourage you to continue to send us your comments and questions through contact us.
What exercises do you recommend?
I would first say that this is a highly individualized decision, and you must always lean on the exercises and activities that will feel best for you. For me, Pilates, walking and stretching have been the best forms of exercise and have helped me manage joint pains (sometimes caused by neuropathy as a result of chemotherapy), elevate my energy levels and maintain heart-health. You should always speak with your doctor as to the degree and frequency of exercise that is best for your journey.
What is the biggest misperception about breast cancer treatment?
I think the biggest misperception is that all treatments are generally the same and what worked or didn’t for someone will likely be the same for someone else. Treatment is highly individualized, not only in the actual medications prescribed, but also the sequence and the duration of treatment. Some patients (especially those with metastatic breast cancer) can be in treatment for the rest of their lives and live well. Other patients may have a shorter treatment window. It all varies based on the individual, and thus it is most helpful to focus on what is best for YOU and not compare your treatment to others.
I’ve heard horror stories about nausea. Tell me, how bad is it really?
It’s bad, but it’s manageable. In our article titled “The Triple Threat”, we share some helpful tips on managing not only nausea, but also vomiting and diarrhea. The most important piece of advice I can give you about managing nausea is to get in front of it. Meaning, take the prescribed nausea medicine before it starts so that you are not chasing the nausea after it hits. Proactive nausea management will help you stay nourished, by allowing you to eat and drink plenty of fluids. Take your nausea meds seriously!
Can you travel while on chemo treatments?
Travel in general has taken a higher level of responsibility of late because of the pandemic in which we have all been living for almost two years. That said, for those on chemo, yes, you can travel, you just need to exercise increased caution while traveling (due to being immunocompromised) and it is something you should take very seriously. In our upcoming Winter Toolkit, we share some tips on taking chemo “on the road” and highlight how you can even establish care outside of where you live in the event you plan to be away from home and are seeking to get chemo care in another location. I did that this past Fall and while it takes work up-front, it was very liberating and a great experience. Be sure to check it out!
I’m thinking about getting a second opinion, but I like my doctor and don’t want to offend her, thoughts?
Getting a second opinion is absolutely in your right to do and has nothing to do with your doctor...it is about you and ensuring you feel fully informed and have as much helpful perspective as possible about your care. In our article titled “Second Opinions and Why They Are a Must-Do” we break down the process and aim to remove any patient-guilt. I fully understand and empathize with feeling a sense of pause, especially when you have a great doctor. But a second opinion is about feeling confident in your care and potentially hearing about care options that other organizations may have access to that yours may not but could. So, know it is not just your right, it is also in your best interest. Importantly, great doctors respect and encourage their patients to seek a second view.
With love,
Amelia O.
