Coping with Prostate Cancer

Living with prostate cancer is not easy, but there are several steps you can take to help you cope better as you manage your condition.

“You have prostate cancer”. It is not easy hearing your doctor say these words, however hard you try to brace yourself for the news. First comes that feeling of disbelief. You wonder how it can possibly be you of all people. Then, just as the realisation slowly sinks in, other emotions begin to rush through you – anger, grief, fear, worry. It can truly be overwhelming when you first learn of your cancer diagnosis – and it is normal to feel that way.

However, that does not mean you have to spend the rest of your life plagued by despair and hopelessness. Being diagnosed with prostate cancer is not a death sentence. Although your life will not be exactly the same as before, you can still make the most out of it by effectively coping with whatever comes your way.

Here are a few suggestions which may be helpful in your management of prostate cancer.


Have a good doctor-patient relationship

Effective communication with your doctor is the first step in gaining a clearer understanding of your condition, the available treatment options and the effective ways of coping with your cancer. It may be helpful to prepare a list of questions which you would like to ask your doctor before your appointment. Also, do not hesitate to ask your doctor to clarify any medical jargon or instructions that you are unsure of. Your doctor is there to address your concerns.


Join a cancer support group

Cancer support groups are able to offer you an environment of encouragement and understanding from people who are going through similar experiences as yourself – something which cannot be obtained from family and friends, even though their support is also an indispensable factor in helping you cope with your condition. The National Cancer Council Malaysia (MAKNA) is one example of institutions which offer cancer support group services.


Set realistic goals

As prostate cancer treatment can take its toll on your body, causing you to tire more easily, learn to set realistic goals for yourself. For example, instead of pushing yourself to complete five errands in a day, try cutting them down to two. Even the slightest feeling of having accomplished something works wonders for your self-motivation.


Maintain intimacy with your partner

Don’t let prostate cancer come between you and your partner! Although you may experience erectile dysfunction as the cancer progresses, you and your partner can still share intimate moments. Hugging, caressing and touching are good alternative forms of expression.


Eat well

A good, well-balanced diet provides you with the nutrition and energy that you will need during your battle with prostate cancer. Protein should be made an important part of your diet as it repairs damaged and aging body tissue. Protein-rich foods include fish, legumes, eggs and meat. Also, drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated as cancer treatment might cause side-effects such as diarrhoea and vomiting. However, always consult your doctor before trying out anything new. Also, your doctor will be able to tailor a diet catering to your specific nutritional needs.


Exercise moderately

As fatigue is a common treatment side-effect, incorporating moderate exercise into your lifestyle can help keep you active and even increase your energy levels. Go for exercises which are less strenuous such as swimming and walking. However, always consult with your doctor before trying out any exercise programme.


Know your treatment costs

When deliberating over your treatment options, always consult your doctor and other healthcare staff for a clearer picture of the financial costs. Also, check with your insurance provider if your choice of treatment will be covered by your insurance policy. An unexpectedly hefty medical bill is the last thing you will want to see.

These suggestions are a guideline which, hopefully, you will find useful for coping with prostate cancer. Always keep in mind that just as each patient’s experience with prostate cancer is unique, so is his way of coping. Do not be disheartened if a particular strategy does not work for you. Take the opportunity to try other methods. In good time, you will surely find the coping strategy which suits you best. 

Source: http://www.healthtoday.net/malaysia/MonthlyFocus/2013/02Feb/CopingwithProstateCancer.aspx