Many people with cancer want to learn all they can about their disease and their treatment choices so they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care. Often, it helps to make a list of questions to ask the doctor. Patients may take notes, or with the doctor's consent, tape record the discussion. Some patients also find it helps to have a family member or friend with them when they talk with the doctor to take part in the discussion, take notes or just to listen. Each of the following treatment sections includes a list of questions you may want to ask your health care provider.
Some patients also choose to seek a second opinion before starting their treatment.
Managing side effects of treatment is one concern and managing pain is another. As part of your cancer treatment, you may need to receive a blood transfusion. Surgery Generally, surgery is done when the cancer is in a limited area. Sometimes, the goal is to remove the whole tumor and achieve cure. At other times, the surgeon removes the largest portion of tumor so other treatment options can work better.