QuickTips Index

How To Pack For The Hospital
Pack the right things to take to the hospital for your breast surgery. It's not like staying in a hotel, but there are things you should leave at home, and things you should take with you to the hospital. Here's a packing list for your hospital visit.

Can I go out in the sun when I'm undergoing chemo for breast cancer?
During summer, family and friends may want to visit the beach, float in the river, or swim in the pool. If you're having chemotherapy for breast cancer, you don't have to be left out of these fun times--but because you may be at higher risk for sunburn, please take good care of your skin. Here are some summer skin care tips.

Specimen Description: Details on Your Breast Cancer Pathology Report
Specimen description is one of the sections on your breast cancer pathology report. It records the where and the how your tissue was removed, and this information can affect your treatment plans. Learn more about your pathology specimen description here.

12 Ways to Detoxify Your Personal Environment
Invest in your health by detoxifying your personal environment. Here's a dozen easy ways to detoxify your environment and reduce your risk for cancer. Learn how to detoxify your personal environment.

How Do Whole Grains Help Fight Cancer?
White bread and white rice looks nice and last longer on the shelf than brown bread and brown rice, so isn't it better? No - it isn't a whole grain product. Whole grains are complete kernels, with many health benefits. Learn about the parts of whole grains.

Fruit Smoothies - Quick Ways to Add Fruit Fiber to Your Diet
Fiber from fruits is great for your health and is a powerful anticancer food. It's easy to add fruit fiber to your daily diet and reap the health benefits. Here's some ways to make a fiber-loaded fruit smoothie. Learn how to add fruit fiber to your diet.

Breast Cancer Surgery Myth: Surgery Spreads Cancer
If my surgeon cuts into the tumor, instead of around it, won't that spread the cancer? Is surgery for breast cancer really safe?

Lidocaine Gel Eases Mammogram Pain, Needle Sticks, and Other Pains
Lidocaine (Xylocaine) gel is a local anesthetic. Researchers have shown that a 4% gel of Lidocaine can ease the pain of a mammogram procedure. It can also lessen the pain of a needle stick, and other pains related to cancer therapies. Read more to learn some uses of Lidocaine.

Toenail Care – Nail Disorders Due to Chemotherapy
During chemotherapy for breast cancer, you may see changes in your fingernails, due to the drugs being used. Nails can change color, become fragile, and even come loose. Here are some ways to take care of your toenails, and prevent problems, while taking chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Nipple and Areola Reconstruction – Last Steps of Breast Reconstruction
A completely reconstructed breast should look like your original breast, restoring your symmetry. Nipple and areola reconstruction is considered the final phase of breast reconstruction. Learn more about nipple and areola reconstruction.

Guided Imagery - Relief for Stress and Emotions During Breast Cancer Treatment
Guided imagery is a technique that uses your mind and senses to help you connect your mind and body, guiding your overall self into a relaxed and centered state. Breast cancer patients may use guided imagery for stress relief, pain management, and to promote better sleep.

Breast Cancer: Airline Travel During Chemotherapy
Going on a trip during chemotherapy for breast cancer will be a good break from the rigors of treatment. But since airline security is high, you may have metal on or in your body that will set off the alarms on metal detectors or wands. Being prepared will help you get through security with fewer problems. Plan ahead and know what to bring with you.

What Are Some Inflammatory Breast Cancer Impostors?
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and very aggressive form of breast cancer. Early detection is critical to proper treatment and survival. So why is IBC often mistaken for other conditions? Learn what the IBC impostors are.

Can I Fire My Doctor? How Do I Change Doctors?
If you are not happy with your current doctor, what do you do? Are you stuck until you're out of treatment? How do you get a second opinion? Here's some things you can do if you are thinking of switching doctors.

How to Choose the Right Oncologist
Getting a diagnosis of breast cancer is a blow, and getting good treatment is essential. How do you choose the right oncologist to work with? What should you look for, and what should you avoid? Here's some ideas, based on my experience with different oncologists.

Nausea tips - use ginger to help during recovery
Do you have ongoing nausea after a chemotherapy infusion? Here are some tips that may help you.

Reconstruction Considerations - how to consider your options
If you will have a mastectomy, you may be asked to consider immediate reconstrustion. What are some things to think about, in making your decision?