Symptom Management

Cancer treatment and even the cancer itself can cause a variety of symptoms. The physicians, nurses, and other specially-trained staff involved with cancer care are experts in assessing your symptoms and developing a plan to manage them. You and your family are taught how to recognize symptoms, how to prevent or treat symptoms at home, and when to notify your physician with issues related to the symptoms.

Pain Control

Not all cancer patients experience pain, but it is one of the most common symptoms associated with cancer.  Pain is assessed on a regular basis in all of our cancer patients. Effective pain management helps to improve quality of life throughout all stages of the disease. Regional Cancer Care Institute physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other specially-trained clinical staff are dedicated to helping patients obtain relief from pain. Pain relief is often achieved through disease treatment and medication. Complementary methods are also used, such as relaxation techniques or massage therapy. In cases where pain control is difficult to obtain, pain control specialists are consulted.

Nutrition

Proper nutrition is an important part of cancer care. A well-nourished patient can have fewer side effects during treatment and fewer problems with recovery. A nutritional class, taught by a registered dietician, is available to help you and your family plan nutritious meals and snacks. In the class, a clinical pharmacist also presents information on herbal and dietary supplements. Registered dietitians are also available for individual nutrition counseling at any time throughout your treatment and recovery.