alice1971
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Complementary medicine, like its name means it is a method that completed scientific and conventional treatment and does not come to replace it (it is not alternative). Complementary medicine is a term used to describe therapeutic techniques that are not part of regular or mainstream medicine. Because it is usually combines with regular treatment it is also known as integrative medicine. Complementary medicine tends to see the effect on a person as a hole and is therefore sometimes called holistic medicine. The actual effect of these methods on cancer is not as rigorously tested as regular treatment methods, but some studies have shown a benefit from these methods. Among the complementary methods one can include acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, support groups, and yoga , massage and tai chi. Studies show that at least 70% of breast cancer survivors have reported using as least one complementary technique. It can help adding complementary methods to your treatment regimen, but it is not recommended to replace any conventional treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation with holistic methods. Complementary medicine works on the interaction of body and mind. Studies have found that people suffering from mental stress also suffered more colds; hence stress weakens the immune system. For cancer treatment, any type of treatment that might relieve stress is good. Complementary medicine has been shown to improve mood, quality of life, and coping with illness. All this can help remove stress of the patient and thus help anti cancer treatment. The placebo effect is also an effect that can be intensified through complementary methods. This effect is that of the strength of belief in healing. If you believe you are getting a certain medicine this will help your body fight off illness. Complementary medicine is believed to improve quality of life and this effect can have a productive influence on anti cancer treatment and recovery. Nutrition too is a complementary treatment method that can well complement regular anti cancer treatment. What we eat is especially important when one is recovering from a serious illness. Correct nutrition can help the body regenerate itself and does not put extra stress on the digestion system. If one has already survived cancer, keeping a healthy strong body is more important than ever, just in case it comes back. Studies show that physical activity, a healthy diet, and a healthy weight can help reduce the chance of breast cancer occurring for the first time or is reoccurrence. Dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and herbs can help keeping the body strong to fight during anti cancer treatment. However one must be careful that supplements do not interfere with treatment or prescription medication. Just because it is natural does not mean it is safe, so consult your physician before adding supplements to your treatment. Because research regarding complementary treatment for cancer is new make sure you are informed regarding the safety of the chosen method before you start integrating into your treatment regimen, Talk to your doctors about the method you with to incorporate and get their opinion on this decision. If you are receiving holistic treatment from a practitioner, choose one with care and recommendations. If you want to take food additives check it first with your doctor. Do not forget to consider the cost. Most complementary practitioner is not covered by insurance, even for cancer patients. So start by inquiring what methods your insurance does cover. Some activities can be enjoyed in a cheaper way, like yoga videos. Explore techniques that cost nothing. Surf the web for the best solution. Be informed regarding various techniques available and their benefits. Talk to other cancer patients to validate the promise of benefit. |
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