Colorectal Cancer Naturopathic Medicine
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Naturopathic Medicine for Colorectal Cancer
Naturopathic treatments, such as homeopathic medicines, vitamins, minerals and herbs, can help colorectal cancer patients minimize side effects of surgical treatment, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and radiation therapy. Additionally, natural therapies can strengthen the immune system, boost energy levels and promote better overall health.
At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) hospitals, you receive scientifically based recommendations for natural therapies from fully credentialed naturopathic clinicians. These experienced providers of naturopathic medicine work with our oncologists to ensure the natural therapies they recommend are safe to use in conjunction with your other advanced colorectal cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.
Naturopathic Therapies During Colorectal Cancer Treatment
During a consultation at one of our hospitals, you’ll meet with a naturopathic clinician. He or she will help you learn about the role naturopathic therapies can play in your treatment at CTCA and provide a detailed evaluation to fully understand how you are feeling. This enables your naturopathic clinician to address any symptoms or side effects you are experiencing.
Together, you’ll design a naturopathic treatment plan that’s unique to you. Throughout your treatment at CTCA, you can meet with your naturopathic clinician to further tailor your naturopathic treatment plan to meet your needs and help optimize your well-being.
Minimizing the Side Effects of Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Your CTCA naturopathic clinician is knowledgeable about colorectal cancer, colorectal cancer treatments and naturopathic therapies that can help you decrease treatment-related side effects and symptoms. Some of these include:
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores
- Upset stomach/digestive tract
- Irregular bowel movements
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Gas
- Bloating
- Low energy
- Neuropathy
- Endocrine abnormalities
- Blood sugar abnormalities
The following are some examples of therapies your naturopathic clinician may recommend to offset the side effects listed below that you may experience during your colorectal cancer treatment:
Nausea – Ginger or peppermint in capsule, tea and chew form help prevent and treat nausea.
Constipation – Smooth Move® tea, magnesium, vitamin C and fiber with plenty of water help promote bowel movements.
Sleeplessness/Insomnia – Melatonin helps promote a healthy sleep pattern. Other naturopathic treatments include:
- Avoid caffeine after 3 p.m.
- Keep the lights dim one hour before bed
- Move the television out of the bedroom
- Take a warm bath with Epsom salts or lavender oil
- Avoid alcohol
Next Topic: Mind-Body Medicine for Colorectal Cancer Patients
