Our comprehensive team at Butler Health System has been delivering world-class
care to our community as part of the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center network
since 2013. Patients have access to renowned cancer specialists and the
latest advances in cancer prevention, diagnosis, medical and radiation
treatments, and breakthrough clinical trials that others travel from all
over the country for… right in their backyard.
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at Butler Health System offers comprehensive
treatment and support services, including:
Chemotherapy administration
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
X-ray volumetric imaging (XVI)
Brachytherapy
State-of-the-art surgical services
Access to clinical trials
Advanced diagnostic and interventional oncology imaging
Individual and family therapy
Cancer and caregiver support groups
Talking to a Friend or Relative with Cancer
Reaching out to a loved one with cancer is important, but it can be difficult.
One key thing to remember is the importance of being genuine. Remember
that your loved one is the same person, cancer or no, and they will appreciate
having real discussions with you. Make it clear you still see them as
the person they always have been. Do not worry about having all the right
things to say, no one expects you to. Just listening can be a major source
of support. It may benefit you to do some research on the disease, and
familiarize yourself with their situation. Focus on the positive, and
know that just by being there, you play an important role in your loved
one’s support system.
Know the Warning Signs
Spotting cancer symptoms early can greatly improve your ability to fight
the disease. If you are curious or anxious about cancer, research the
warning signs. By familiarizing yourself with the early symptoms, you
will have a better idea of when to visit a doctor for concerning conditions.
General cancer symptoms include weight loss, increased fatigue, unexplained
pains, indigestion, odd lumps or skin discolorations, change in bowel
habits, and sores that do not heal. Do not panic if you have these symptoms,
they can be the result of many conditions. Visit a doctor for an informed
diagnosis and a cancer screening.
Coping with Physical Effects of Cancer
Both cancer and its treatment can take a heavy physical toll. It’s
not always possible to avoid these conditions, but there are ways to fight
them and take some control over your situation. For instance, you can
defend against nausea by changing your diet to 6 or 8 small meals a day,
and sticking to dry, simple foods for snacks. Do not be afraid to indulge
in some of your preferred, healthier foods as a means to fight a reduced
appetite. If you are experiencing heavy fatigue or pain, speak with your
doctor about medications that can ward off these symptoms.
Radiation Therapy
More than half of patients diagnosed with cancer receive some form of radiation
therapy. Effective use of this treatment can shrink tumors, or even destroy
cancer cells. Depending on where the radiation is being applied, and the
patient’s overall health, side effects of this treatment can be
mild to exhausting. You can ease the burden of radiation therapy by getting
plenty of rest and maintaining a healthy diet. It’s best to interfere
with the affected area as little as possible: wash with warm water instead
of hot, avoid tight clothing, and do not put cold packs or warm compresses
on the area.
Understanding Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a medication designed specifically to kill cancer cells.
It is a powerful treatment, but must be carefully administered to avoid
severe side effects, which is why it is mostly performed at a doctor’s
office or hospital. Chemotherapy may be your sole cancer treatment, or
used in conjunction with other methods. When used effectively, it can
shrink tumors, prevent the spread of cancer, and help with the pain of
the disease. The frequency at which it is administered can be anywhere
from every day to every few months. Side effects include hair loss, nausea,
fatigue, and weakness.
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