Complementary medicine works in conjunction with the medical treatments recommended by your doctors. They easily "complement" or work with your oncology treatments. It is very important that your healthcare team be informed if you decide to try any of these therapies so that there is no interference or interactions between your other treatment(s).

The beneficial effects of complementary medicine practices such as acupuncture, meditation, guided imagery, and herbal supplements or Traditional Chinese Medicine have been proven to alleviate many of the side effects of "traditional" medical breast cancer therapies and promote healing at an optimal rate.

Visit our Complementary Therapy & Cancer Support Groups listings to learn more about all the cancer programs offered through the Oncology Department at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. Below is a list of some additional complementary care recommendations from the Breast Health Center.

Acupuncture
Developed in ancient China, acupuncture involves the insertion and manipulation of tiny needles at meridian points in your body. The meridian points, when stimulated, modify the flow of vital energy (Chi) that may be imbalanced. The basis of this therapy is the belief that Chi is disturbed and blocked when there is illness. This re-establishment of Chi flow stimulates the body’s natural healing ability and often reduces pain and the uncomfortable side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Acupuncture can be administered by a Licensed Acupuncturist/medical doctor at the same time as chemotherapy session, if desired.

Emotional Healing
After experiencing cancer, you may go through times of confusion, sadness and despair. This is completely normal. Over time, these feelings will subside. Sometimes, you may experience feelings of anxiety and depression. It's important to determine what you can cope with on your own and when you may need professional help. You can try physical exercise, a support group, relaxation and visualization techniques and/or other complementary therapies (i.e. acupuncture, acupressure). If your feelings of depression do not improve, you should inform your doctor who can refer you to the appropriate specialist.

Emotional Support
Many people find it helpful to have one person who accompanies them to appointments, helps ask questions and generally helps them to record notes. This person might also assist you in making health-related decisions and may become the center of your support system. As you go through procedures and treatments, it can be very helpful to have friends and family members help you with tasks you previously did by yourself. Consider "sharing responsibility" with a loved one to ease your daily stress and responsibilities. Sometimes it is difficult to tell loved ones exactly what you need from them. Advice from a breast cancer survivor can be found at www.circusofcancer.org.

Herbal Supplements
Herbal therapies and the herbs prescribed with Acupuncture (called Traditional Chinese Medicine), have been shown to be effective when used in tandem with conventional therapies. They can boost the immune system which facilitates healing, and can alleviate the common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Herbal preparations must be carefully prescribed just like any other medicine. Check with your doctors before beginning a regimen of herbal supplements. For more information go to http://www.imaginis.com/breasthealth/links/alternative.asp

Lymphedema Prevention
Lymph fluid helps filter out dead cells, protein and waste products in your veins as well as helping your immune system fight infection. Removal of lymph nodes can sometimes cause the collection of the fluid known as "lymphedema." The risk of lymphedema after removal of lymph nodes can be as high as 20%, but is less than 5% with sentinel node biopsy.

Lymphedema is the painless swelling of the hand, arm and/or chest. It can occur because the normal drainage system of lymph fluid is injured during surgery or due to radiation treatments. Most women do not develop lymphedema, however it's good to be aware of prevention strategies. Untreated, lymphedema can interfere with wound healing and infection as well as reduced oxygen your body's immune system. Symptoms include:
* A full sensation in the limbs
* Skin feeling tight
* Decreased flexibility in the hand, wrist or ankle
* Difficulty fitting into clothing in one specific area
* Ring, watch or bracelet tightness

Minimize Your Risk
* Do not carry heavy objects
* Avoid vigorous, repetitive movement with your arm
* Treat infections, burns and insect bites promptly and watch for signs of infection
* Avoid blood pressure cuffs, blood draws, injections and intravenous injections in your arm
* When taking a long plane flight (more than 2-3 hours) wear a compression sleeve
* Keep the skin on your arm and chest clean and well lubricated
* Avoid tight clothing or jewelry on your arm
* Make sure bra straps fit comfortably
* Avoid dramatic changes in temperature, for example long soaks in a hot tub
* Use sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher
* Wear gloves when doing work to protect your hands
* Avoid cutting cuticles, instead push them back gently
* Be alert of any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, drainage, warmth and/or fever
* Immediately call your doctor if you think you have an infection

To make an appointment with our Lymphedema Specialists, call (510) 204-4599. The hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Therapists may be able to schedule appointments earlier than 8:00 am.

Movement & Exercise
Be empowered by movement and exercise. Moderate amounts of regular exercise, like a 30 minute walk or a few laps in the pool can lift your spirits and give you a feeling of well being. If you aim for 2-4 hours per week, you will notice improved mood, cardiovascular fitness and improved sleep. Stay well hydrated, wear comfortable clothing and shoes and be aware of your posture and breathing. Start slowly and gradually build up the duration and intensity.

Research has shown that regular moderate exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer. And, if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, regular exercise can reduce your risk of a recurrence of that cancer.

Nutrition & Diet
Good nutrition can improve your strength and energy level, and help you maintain a healthy weight. Women who are overweight after menopause have a higher risk of breast cancer and may have higher reoccurence rates after a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Diet Tips:
Eat less fat. A low fat diet is a safe, proactive thing you can do to improve your health. Avoid saturated fats, polyunsaturated and hydrogenated oils and transfats. Choose monosaturated fats like olive oil and canola oil.

* Decrease your intake of meat and increase your intake of lean poultry and fish.
* Dairy products should be non-fat without hormones added.
* Control your caloric intake.
* Decrease refined carbohydrates such as candy, cakes, juice, and sodas.
* Eat fiber rich foods such as whole grains and beans.
* Try to eat 5 fruits and 5 vegetables per day, including cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. These foods are rich in antioxidants and other protective phytochemicals.
* Eat adequate protein. It is necessary to fuel your body's regeneration processes.
* Drink 8-10 glasses of water each day.

Oncology Social Workers
Our Oncology Social Workers provide advocacy, information, education and support to breast cancer patients and their families as they undertake both practical and emotional projects. They assess both external and internal resources and develop care plans that address both needs and strengths. They facilitate communication between patients and providers as well as between patients and their families and support networks. Social Workers provide resources and referrals to psychologists and/or chaplaincy services to encourage self-expression and support self-determination.

Sexuality
As you recover from the trauma of diagnosis and treatment, sexual feelings and how you express them will regain importance. Remember to be patient and give yourself time. Being uncomfortable and anxious are normal feelings. Feelings of confidence should return in time. Talk with your health care provider about:
* Alleviating some of the physical changes, such as vaginal dryness or pain
* Reassuring your partner about any changes in your sexual activity
* Discussing possible breast reconstruction

Sexual Changes as a Result of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can have a dramatic effect on sexuality for women. It causes medical menopause which can result in hot flashes, vaginal dryness and infertility. Other side effects that affect your self image and sexual desire may be hair loss, skin and weight changes, nausea and fatigue.

* Give yourself time to get used to the changes, spend time alone looking at your body
* Talk to friends, partners or others in your support group about your feelings regarding your new appearance
* Consider ways to increase your comfort level in preparation for your first post-treatment sexual experience
* Plan sex when you are feeling strong and energized, which may be early in the day
* Create affectionate, quiet time with your partner to get used to each other again
* Take the pressure off having intercourse, and instead, express sexuality using other means such as massage and kissing
* When you feel ready for intercourse, talk with your partner to find positions and activities that provide the most pleasure and minimize any discomfort

Recommended Websites
Intimacy, Sex and Your Love Life at www.breastcancer.org
Sexuality and Cancer
Sexuality, Intimacy and Communication at www.cancersupportivecare.com
Sexuality for Women and Their Partners at www.cancer.org

Support Groups
Support groups can be a great way to discuss your concerns with others who are going through (or have gone through) the emotional and physical states that you are experiencing. Groups are led by a trained facilitator and are organized in various ways. There has been research done at Stanford University that proves that women who participated in Support Groups had less anxiety, depression and pain than those that did not choose to be part of a group. Find out about cancer Support Groups available at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.

Survivorship
Once you have completed your treatments, it is important to continue seeing your team of providers as scheduled. Collect questions to ask about any new symptoms that have occurred or questions you may have. The American Cancer Society has a terrific website which is focused on the issues that arise once you have had cancer.

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