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Talking to Your Health Care Provider about Lung Cancer

By EmpowHER
Created 06/10/2008 - 07:30

Talking to Your Health Care Provider about Lung Cancer

by ]]>Debra Wood, RN]]>

]]>Main Page]]> | ]]>Risk Factors]]> | ]]>Reducing Your Risk]]> | ]]>Screening]]> | ]]>Symptoms]]> | ]]>Diagnosis]]> | ]]>Treatment Overview]]> | ]]>Chemotherapy]]> | ]]>Radiation Therapy]]> | ]]>Surgical Procedures]]> | ]]>Other Treatments]]> | ]]>Lifestyle Changes]]> | ]]>Living With Lung Cancer]]> | Talking to Your Doctor | ]]>Resource Guide]]>

You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor or health care provider about your personal risk factors and/or experience with lung cancer. By talking openly and regularly with your health care provider, you can take an active role in your care.

General Tips for Gathering Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your health care provider:

  • Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
  • Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider

About Lung Cancer

  • What is the stage of my lung cancer?
  • Which type of lung cancer is it?
  • Was it caught early or has it spread?

About Treatment Options

  • How do I best treat lung cancer?
    • What are the risks and benefits associated with this treatment plan?
    • What other options are there?
    • How long will the treatments last?
    • What side effects can I expect?
    • What will I need to change in my daily routine?
    • How will I feel during treatment?
    • What will I need to do to take care of myself during the treatment period?
    • What will we do if the treatment does not succeed?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • How can I find help to quit smoking?
  • Are there other lifestyle changes I can make to help my prognosis?

About Outlook

  • How likely is it that my treatments will kill all the cancer cells?
  • How do I know that my treatment program is effective?
  • Should I consider participating in a clinical trial?
  • Do you know of any support groups or other patients I can talk with?

Sources:

American Cancer Society

American Lung Association

National Cancer Institute


Last reviewed February 2003 by ]]>Jondavid Pollock, MD, PhD]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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