Sometimes a visit to the oncologist may feel overwhelming, especially when you are not used to certain medical terms. Your loved ones, relatives or a good friend could accompany you to help you take in all the information the oncologist will share.
It is also useful to have a notebook to write things down, for example answers to the following questions, as cancer treatment can also affect memory:
1) How do you know I have cancer?
2) What kind of cancer do I have?
3) Where is the cancer?
4) Is the cancer anywhere else in my body?
5) What type of tests or procedures do I need?
6) How long will I receive treatment?
7) What is the chance of my cancer being cured?
8) How will treatment benefit me?
9) What can I expect during treatment?
10) Will there be side effects caused by the treatment?
11) If I need to stay in hospital how long will it be and may my family visit me?
12) Can a family member or friend come with me when I have treatment if I do not have to stay in the hospital?
13) Are there any things I am not allowed to do during treatment?
14) What will happen if I do not get treatment?
15) How will cancer treatment affect my fertility? What fertility preservation options are available to me?
Source: “I have Cancer now what?” by Dr Annemarie Oberholzer and Dr Melanie van Aswegen
You may also find useful answers to frequently asked questions to chat to your oncologist about here…