Ask Questions

Make a list of questions to take with you every time you go to your doctor. Remember that under stressful circumstances people tend to forget, and having a list of questions will ensure that you get all the answers you are looking for. It follows that you should take a pen to write down the answers that the doctor provides so that you can sit and go through the questions and answers later when everything has calmed down.

Below is a list of important questions you should consider asking your doctor.

• What type of breast cancer do I have? Where exactly is it?
• What is the stage of my cancer?
• What type of treatment do I need? Why is this one better for me?
• What side-effects or after-effects will I get?
• How long will my treatment take?
• Should I eat any special foods that might help me in any way?
• Is there anything I can do to help myself during treatment?
• How am I likely to feel throughout my illness?
• Who can I talk to about my fears and concerns to help me cope?
• Are there any support groups available?
• What support is available for other people in my family, such as my spouse or my children?