Cancer is a devastating disease that can come in many forms and affect various parts of the body. According to the National Cancer Institute, by 2040, almost 75% of American cancer survivors will be 65 or older. If you or someone you love is dealing with cancer treatment, you should know what constitutes an emergency. Here is some information about when you should contact your local cancer centers for emergency care.

High Fever

When you’re dealing with cancer, you should always be aware of your body temperature. A body temperature of 105 degrees or higher indicates a bad fever. Fevers usually occur when the body is fighting off an infection. If a fever becomes way too high, such as in the event of heat stroke, it could cause damage. Since your immune system may already be compromised, your doctor should be alerted immediately when infection is possible.

Bleeding

Call your local cancer centers if you’re bleeding in areas unexpectedly. Such bleeding may occur in your nose or gums. Look out for blood in your urine or signs of blood in your stool. An indication that you may have blood in your stool is when it is black or tarry-looking.

Bowel Issues

You may have to make an emergency call due to your bowels. In addition to looking for signs of bloody stools, you should also call for help if you’re experiencing severe diarrhea. Diarrhea happens when your stool comes out very watery. On the other hand, you may also become severely constipated, and it may take days before you make a bowel movement. This constipation may come with severe abdominal cramps that could cause you to double over.

Intense Pain

Your oncologist will likely have you on some type of pain medication to manage your symptoms. However, if your pain has become excruciating to the point where medication no longer works, you may need to call your local cancer centers. A major cause for alarm may be chest pains, especially if followed by shortness of breath.

Cancer can be a painful disease for anyone to deal with. That’s why it’s essential to know when you have an emergency and who to contact. If you’re experiencing any of the above issues, such as intense pain, profuse bleeding, bowel problems, and more, contact us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists for help.

Posted 5/24/24

After visiting some local cancer specialists, you’ve received some scary news: you have kidney cancer. We understand that this is an overwhelming time. Fortunately, there is good news. According to the National Cancer Institute, in the next 10 years, the number of people living five or more years after a cancer diagnosis will increase by 30%. This is due to more advanced treatments and care. That being said, here’s how kidney cancer is treated, so you can have a better idea of what to expect.

Determining Cancer Stages

Skilled local cancer specialists will start by determining the stage of your cancer. Processes like blood and urine tests can help by tracking changes in your body while imaging tests can visually identify tumors. Your doctor might remove some kidney cells (a biopsy) to identify tumor risks.

Stage 1 is the best possible cancer stage because this means the tumor is smaller and is located only in the kidney. The later stages indicate that the tumor has grown or has moved to other parts of the body, which can be more dangerous but is still treatable.

Treating Your Cancer

Depending on the severity of your cancer (the stage and its spread), your therapy may vary. In some cases, the tumor is small enough to be removed itself (along with some surrounding tissue). Chemotherapy and radiation treatment can also reduce your tumors and help you avoid serious health consequences.

There’s the chance that the affected kidney might need to be removed or a significant portion of it. However, the goal of all kidney cancer treatment is to avoid that possibility (as much as possible). Other therapies may include cryoablation (freezing the cancerous cells) and radiofrequency ablation (heat therapy) to kill the affected areas without hurting the rest of the kidney to keep your body as healthy as possible.

Working with local cancer specialists can streamline your treatment, including making diagnosis easier, and ensure you get the support you need. You deserve to live a healthy and happy life free from cancer, and we can help! Call us today at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists for more information about our kidney cancer treatment options. We’re available to answer any treatment-related questions you may have for us.

Cancer is one of the most serious diseases a person can contract. Even if someone gets one of the most survivable forms of cancer, it can have a big impact on their life and many forms can be difficult if not impossible to treat. If you or a loved one are worried about cancer, it’s smart to talk with a doctor at the best cancer centers. If you’ve already had an initial diagnosis, you may want to get a second opinion. According to a study done by BreastCancer, about 1 out of 8 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer during their life.

1. Time is of the Essence

One of the most important considerations when it comes to treating many forms of cancer is catching it early. Often, if cancer is caught at the best cancer centers before it starts to spread, it is much more treatable. Unfortunately, doctors can miss cancer and if so, it could greatly impact your outlook and chance for survival.

2. Even the Best Doctors Have Off Days

Doctors might also misunderstand how advanced diagnosed cancer is and thus patients may not secure as quick of treatment as needed. By getting a second opinion, even if the first doctor misses or underestimates the cancer, the second doctor may catch it. Keep in mind that the best doctors can have off days. Further, cancer can be hard to correctly diagnose even if you know what to look for. A second opinion, however, greatly improves the odds.

3. Specialization is Crucial in Medicine

Family doctors and general practitioners are leading healthcare professionals and have undergone extensive training. That said, general practitioners aren’t trained experts when it comes to cancer. As their title implies, their focus is more widespread. Unfortunately, increased breadth in medicine typically comes at the cost of less depth. A general practitioner may miss signs of cancer altogether and often isn’t in the best spot to prescribe treatment.

4. Broaden the Scope of Considerations

Even among cancer specialists, there is a lot of variance. A cancer specialist who focuses on cancer in one area, say the liver, may not realize that the cancer has spread to other areas because they are focused on the liver. A second opinion can broaden the scope of considerations.

The above considerations are far from exhaustive. If you or a loved one are concerned about cancer, it’s smart to take those concerns as a priority. If nothing else, a second opinion can provide peace of mind. Should you need assistance, contact Palo Verde Cancer Specialists right away.

Posted 4/15/24

When it comes to this kind of news, whether it’s affecting the skin, the lungs, or other parts of the body, people divide their lives into two parts: “Before Cancer” and “After Cancer.” It’s something that can quickly upend someone’s life. There are options, like a cancer treatment center that will have caring, supportive staff. That’s not all. Here are three ways to cope with a new cancer diagnosis.

1. Learn Everything You Can About Your Diagnosis

This is the important first step when it comes to coping with your diagnosis. Find out everything ranging from the location to whether it’s spread to your treatment option. By getting everything organized, you can know what you need to do to figure out your best approach. Approach this with the mindset of someone who is going to recover.

2. Keep Your Lines of Communication Open

You need to be able to talk about it with the people in your inner circle, including your cancer support team and the doctor. It’s better to be frank about it rather than avoid it. You can also find people to bounce things off of at a cancer support group at your treatment center.

3. Find the Path That Works Best for You

Just like everyone reacts differently to the news that they have cancer, they also respond to it differently. You don’t have to have the same methods of coping as others. You know your body and your moods, so you find things to do that occupy you as you navigate this new world. The best thing to do is what you want to — then you’ll get the best results for you.

People globally get diagnosed with all kinds of cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, the yearly rate for lung and bronchus cancer is 53.1 per 100,000 men and women. By doing the above three things and also using a strong support system, they can cope with the news that they receive. Then it’s a matter of going to a cancer treatment center and working to get better.

Did you or a loved one get a cancer diagnosis? Are you looking for a cancer treatment center in your area? We can provide the best services to help with the fight against this disease. Contact Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today to learn more.

Have you heard of or been diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa? You may be confused and worried about treatment. Your local cancer specialists want you to be assured that this condition can be treatable, especially once it has received a proper diagnosis. Read on for more insight.

Early Treatment Is Important

If you have the inflammatory skin disease Hidradenitis Suppurativa, you may be alarmed by its initial appearance. The inflamed bumps can occur anywhere like your inner thighs, anus, under your breasts, or armpits. They can range from the size of tiny pimples to large boils. These bumps can even develop under the skin and keep coming back.

As with any medical condition, early treatment is ideal to help reduce the risk of complications. Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) can sometimes lead to basal cell carcinoma, one of the most common skin cancers. According to the NCI, about 2 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2023. Fortunately, in the event that your HS does develop into skin cancer, your local cancer specialists at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists can help.

It’s Not an STD

Depending on the location of the bumps, some people may wrongfully conclude that they have an STD. After all, this inflammatory skin disease doesn’t just occur on your face. It can happen around the genital area. Rest assured that it’s not a sexually transmitted disease. It’s a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can often be brought on by hormones or autoimmunity issues.

You’re Not Alone

As many as 4% of Americans have been diagnosed with HS, and it’s most common in women between the ages of 18 and 50. However, the age group that is more likely to experience HS is people in their 20s and 30s. Once you’ve been diagnosed, you’re likely to find support from others who are going through the same situation. Most importantly, you’ll have access to proper care that can help you.

Your local cancer specialists want you to be safe, healthy, and properly diagnosed with any potential ailments you may have. If you suspect that your HS has developed into skin cancer, don’t hesitate to contact us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists for a screening. Contact us today for an appointment.

Posted 4/2/24

Cancer is a terrible disease that can affect any part of the body, and gynecological cancers are especially a concern as you age. Here is some information your local gynecological cancer specialist wants you to know about this disease.

Broad Term

Gynecological cancer is a blanket term that covers cancers that happen in the female reproductive system, including the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, vulva, and ovaries. According to the American Cancer Society, 80% of American cancer patients are 55 years of age or older, but gynecological cancers may affect you at any age. However, the risk increases as a patient ages. Gynecological professionals suggest you begin receiving annual pap smears by the time you turn 21.

Prevention

When it comes to cancer prevention, some cancers are more straightforward. For example, the best way to prevent lung cancer is to avoid smoking. However, with gynecological cancers, the best prevention is through regular screenings. You should also do self-exams, as you know when you’re developing changes in your body or something feels unusual in your genital area. If you have a family history of gynecological cancers, then you should be even more cautious and arrange more screenings with your doctor.

Risk

As a gynecological cancer specialist will tell you, there are certain risk factors to look out for when it comes to checking for this particular disease. While family history is one of the main risks, you should also be aware if you have the Human papillomavirus (HPV), which can increase your risk of cervical cancer.

Symptoms

Regardless of age, your gynecological cancer specialist wants you to look out for signs of abnormal discharge or vaginal bleeding. Are you feeling any pelvic pain or pressure? Has there been any frequent changes or urgent needs to constantly urinate? How about consistent constipation? When it comes to cancer of the vulva, it may show up by way of pain, tenderness, color changes, rashes, sores, and warts.

It’s important to be in tune with your body. Note various body changes, especially when it comes to your reproductive system. Regardless of age, any woman could be susceptible to the various gynecological cancers out there. If you’re showing symptoms of cancer or need reliable treatment, contact our professional team at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today.

Posted 3/14/24

Cancer and the treatments implemented by a cancer specialist to control and hopefully force it into remission can be hard on your body. Nausea is a common side effect of many treatments and can lower your quality of life. If you’re struggling with cancer, you’re not alone. Indeed, according to the National Cancer Institute, the rate of new cases of cancer (aka cancer incidence) is about 442 per 100,000 men and women annually. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage the side effects of cancer treatment, including nausea.

Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals

Many folks eat two or three large meals per day. This can be taxing on your digestive system, especially when you’re already struggling to cope with cancer treatment. It’s best to break things up, enjoying smaller but more frequent meals. Not only could this help with nausea, but it may also bolster your overall health.

Consume BRAT Foods

Cancer treatment can be quite a nuisance, but BRAT foods can help. We’re referring to bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These four foods offer a good mix of vitamins and nutrients. They are also relatively easy for the body to digest and can help absorb stomach acid. When in doubt and feeling queasy, BRAT foods are a generally safe and simple choice.

Try Ginger Root

One of the best natural remedies for combating an upset stomach and nausea is ginger root. You can add fresh ginger root to your meals or chew on candied ginger in moderation. Ginger root tea can also settle the stomach. For better or worse, however, ginger root is an acquired taste and some patients simply won’t find it palatable.

Avoid Spicy Greasy Foods

Many of your favorite foods might be spicy, greasy, or both. Unfortunately, such foods are hard on the digestive system and can increase the risk of stomachaches and indigestion. If consumed at all, you should limit the portions of spicy and greasy foods that you take in.

Drink Flat Ginger Ale Soda

Both lemon-lime and ginger ale soda are a go-to home remedy for nausea. When you’re struggling with cancer, however, you’ll want to reduce burping and acidity. Simply by opening a can or bottle of soda and letting it go flat, you can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the beverage, thus reducing acidity and burping.

The above list is far from exhaustive. Various medications and lifestyle adjustments can help. It’s wise to speak with a cancer specialist to develop a care plan for managing the nausea associated with cancer treatment. Need assistance? Contact us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists right away.

Posted: 11/14/23

If you have cancer, you do not need an introduction to cancer-related fatigue. You probably have already been introduced. Cancer treatments, medications, and stress can make your body and mind feel tired. In a perfect world, you would be able to sleep as needed. But, you may still have responsibilities or a job to complete. Read on to learn more about how you can cope with the fatigue associated with cancer.

1. Exercise

When you are tired, you want to sit and relax, not exercise. This is an understandable feeling. But, simple exercises, like stretching or walking, can increase your heart rate and boost the endorphins in your body. This can help you to fight some of the fatigue that you are feeling. Exercise can also help boost your immunity, which is important as you fight cancer.

2. Eat Healthy Foods

The food you eat can affect how tired you are. If you are undergoing cancer treatments or taking medications, you may not feel like eating. Many of the treatments may leave you feeling nauseous. But, it is important to ensure that you get enough food on a daily basis. Things like protein shakes or fruit smoothies can help you to reach your nutritional and caloric needs.

3. Indulge In a Massage

You likely have a lot going on in your life, including a lot of stress, worry and anxiety. Take the time and indulge in a massage. A massage is a great way to relax, decompress and unwind. As you are massaged, blood flow increases to your muscles, which helps to fight aches and pains and muscle fatigue. You may also feel more relaxed and less tired after a massage.

4. Rest and Relax

Lastly, take it easy and set aside a little more time than normal to rest and relax. Cancer treatments take their toll on your body and you will need to go at a slower pace. Set aside time to take a nap or get more sleep at night.

Cancer treatments can take a toll on your body. This can make you feel tired. But, there is a silver lining. According to the National Cancer Institute, in the next decade, the number of Americans who have lived five or more years after their cancer diagnosis is expected to increase by 30%. This means that cancer treatments are becoming more effective. If you are suffering from cancer, let us help treat you. Contact our cancer specialists today and find out how we can help you with your battle against cancer. With five convenient locations, you will find our caring and professional staff ready and waiting to navigate you through your total cancer care.

Cancer is a prevalent condition that many people will face in their lifetime, and it’s increasing in the elderly population. According to the National Cancer Institute, around 74% of cancer survivors nationwide will be 65 and older in 2040. Many of these individuals will experience a condition known as cancer fatigue.

What is Cancer Fatigue?

A cancer specialist will frequently see this condition. Whereas most people will get tired, this fatigue is more draining. It involves a patient being physically and emotionally exhausted. Often, individuals do not feel better after they wake up or get rest.

Various Physical Causes

Several things contribute to a person developing this condition. When patients undergo chemotherapy treatments with a cancer specialist, the treatments make them tired. Cancer patients may have mobility issues, so they can’t be as active as they once were. These both contribute to a patient feeling weak and tired.

The Nutritional Causes

Nutrition is critical in how we feel mentally and physically. Unfortunately, chemotherapy and other cancer treatments often harm appetite and can make it hard for people to eat enough food to get the necessary nutrition. However, cancer specialists can help you combat this through medication or by helping you develop a meal plan.

Mental Health Causes

Our mental health is equally important. Having cancer is often mentally draining. Patients that are concerned about finances or other things may experience chronic stress. The emotional toll that this condition causes may lead to patients feeling burnt out or emotionally exhausted, contributing to cancer fatigue.

Treatment Options

A cancer specialist will offer several treatment options for patients with this condition. Bloodwork can help discover nutritional deficiencies and ensure patients get the right vitamins and nutrients. Medications can help increase appetite and make it easier to eat foods. Physical therapy can address mobility issues.

Prioritize Self Care

During this time, it’s essential to make yourself a priority. Focus on one task at a time, and don’t beat yourself up if things aren’t accomplished. Instead, make resting and recovering your primary goals. Reach out to friends and family members to help you with household chores and other things that need to be done.

We understand that it can be difficult when you or a loved one has cancer. Our team of cancer specialists is here to walk beside you, helping you address any concerns. For more information on the services we provide, contact us today.

Posted September 9, 2023

Undergoing chemotherapy can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience for cancer patients. At Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, one of the leading local cancer specialists, we understand the importance of addressing not just the physical aspects of cancer treatment but also the mental and emotional well-being of our patients. In this blog post, we will explore practical strategies and self-care tips to help you prioritize your mental health while undergoing chemotherapy.

Seek Support from Local Cancer Specialists

During your chemotherapy journey, it’s crucial to lean on the expertise and support provided by local cancer specialists like Palo Verde. Our team consists of oncologists, nurses, and counselors who are experienced in guiding patients through the emotional challenges of cancer treatment. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our compassionate professionals who can provide guidance, answer questions, and offer resources to support your mental well-being.

Build a Supportive Network

In addition to professional support, surrounding yourself with a strong network of family, friends, and support groups can be immensely beneficial for your mental health. Share your feelings, fears, and concerns with trusted loved ones, as they can provide comfort and encouragement throughout your treatment. Local cancer specialists often organize support groups where you can connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and find emotional support. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.

Practice Self-Care

Taking care of your mental health during chemotherapy requires intentional self-care practices. Here are some self-care strategies to consider:

• Prioritize Rest: Chemotherapy can be physically exhausting, so ensure you get enough rest and sleep to allow your body and mind to rejuvenate.
• Engage in Relaxation Techniques: Explore relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress and anxiety./li>
• Stay Active: Engaging in gentle exercises, as permitted by your healthcare team, can release endorphins and boost your mood. Consider activities like walking, stretching, or light yoga.
• Express Yourself Creatively: Engage in creative outlets such as painting, writing, or playing music, which can serve as a therapeutic way to express your emotions and reduce stress.
• Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: Focus on maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Prioritizing your mental health while undergoing chemotherapy is vital for your overall well-being and resilience. The local cancer specialists at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists recognize the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of your cancer journey. By seeking support, building a network, practicing self-care, and communicating openly, you can navigate the challenges of chemotherapy while fostering your mental well-being. Remember, at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, we are here to support you every step of the way, providing comprehensive care that encompasses your mental health needs.

Posted August 8, 2023