“Approximately 38.4 percent of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer of any site at some point during their lifetime, based on 2013-2015 data. Prevalence of This Cancer: In 2015, there were an estimated 15,112,098 people living with cancer of any site in the United States.”
We have all been affected by cancer in some way. It’s not an easy process for anyone involved. However there are ways to make treatment just a little bit less intimidating…to make it just that more manageable. There is constant research working towards finding a cure, however until then we must look at how we can assist cancer patients through this with the least amount of harm.
Acupuncture is a safe complementary cancer treatment for all age groups, making it an excellent therapy to consider while battling with cancer. Acupuncture is a painless treatment option to help patients naturally combat symptoms without having to incorporate additional medications.
Side effects cancer patients may experience that acupuncture can help with:
- Fatigue
- Poor Immunity
- Nausea and vomiting
- Appetite changes
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Mouth, tongue, and throat problems such as sores and pain with swallowing
- Nerve and muscle problems such as numbness, tingling, and pain
- Skin and nail changes such as dry skin and color change
- Urine and bladder changes and kidney problems
- Weight changes
- Chemo brain, which can affect concentration and focus
- Mood changes (Depression, Anxiety)
- Changes in libido and sexual function
- Fertility problems
How does it work?
Considerable evidence supports the claim that opioid peptides are released during acupuncture and that the analgesic effects of acupuncture explain the pain relieving actions. Stimulation by acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones explain the “feel good” and stress relieving effects of acupuncture.
Although a very frightening chapter has closed once a person finishes cancer treatments there are still some lasting or “late” effects that occur. Effects can be dues to a various of experiences throughout cancer treatments such as; surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Just a few of these effects include:
- Fatigue.
- Difficulty with focused thinking (sometimes called chemo brain).
- Early menopause.
- Heart problems.
- Reduced lung capacity.
- Kidney and urinary problems.
- Nerve problems such as numbness and tingling.
- Bone and joint problems.
Acupuncture therapy is a great supplement to enhance post cancer wellness and manage any late side effects.
Cancer is just scary, there’s no getting around that. Scary for the patient but the family as well. Acupuncture, effectively assists with various emotions that prevail during treatments. No one wants to see a loved one suffer. Acupuncture can be the additional support you and your family deserve.
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