Live Life Team
There are certain choices to make regarding cancer treatment. One option is complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM includes medical products such as chiropractics, acupuncture and herbal medicines. These practises do not include standard care practised by conventional medical doctors and health professionals. Alternative medicine is used in lieu of standard care, whereas complementary medicine includes non-standard treatment used together with standard practises.
A good complementary therapist will always suggest that patients discuss appropriate therapies with their oncologist. People use different complementary therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, visualisation and yoga. Acupuncture can alleviate some physical problems like pain and nausea. It also can reduce symptoms of anxiety. Aromatherapy can relieve stress, improve well-being and help refresh the body through the healing properties of concentrated essences of essential oils. Visualisation helps patients relax and manage problems through the power of their imagination. Yoga helps prevent illness and relaxes the body, mind and spirit. It also normalises breathing and circulation to maintain health. Some studies suggest that it may help people with cancer to sleep better and cope with anxiety.
A complementary therapy may help patients deal with the treatment of cancer and help them feel better, but the treatments may not work for everyone. However, some methods can help patients deal with pain and with some of the side effects of cancer treatment. Complementary therapies can be used together with regular medical treatments prescribed by a doctor.
