Cervical cancer is a serious illness and many women are affected by this disease every year. Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix, which is the lower area of the uterus and it is diagnosed during an annual Pap test. This type of cancer is caused by the Human Papillomavirus and it occurs when the normal cells (found in the cervix), changes to cancer cells. Although cervical cancer is treatable, many women experience some common and unpleasant symptoms. However, the symptoms are treatable and women can learn to cope with them. There are some things that you can do in order to cope with cervical cancer symptoms.
Instructions
1. Determine which symptoms you are experiencing from the cervical cancer. The most common cervical cancer symptoms include longer menstrual cycles, abnormal bleeding (after a pelvic examination, after having sexual intercourse or between your monthly cycles), an increased amount of vaginal discharge, unusual pelvic pain and pain after sexual intercourse. As the cervical cancer progresses, you may also experience anemia, continuous pelvic pain, along with pain in your leg or back, weight loss and urinary problems.
2. Document your symptoms on a sheet of paper or use a notepad to record them. You should make a list of all of your cervical cancer symptoms. Be sure to list how often they occur, the time of day you have them and whether or not the symptoms are mild or severe. Give this information to your medical doctor when you go in for your next appointment.
3. Visit your doctor to discuss the symptoms. Your doctor evaluates your situation and medical condition and inquires about the symptoms. Be sure to give your doctor the list you created and go over the information with her. It is important to be open and honest with your doctor about your symptoms and answer all of her questions.
4. Discuss coping strategies with your doctor. Depending on your specific symptoms your doctor may prescribe you certain medications or antibiotics to treat your symptoms and also make adjustments to your diet. For example, he may give you pain killers for the pelvic, leg or back pain, iron pills for anemia, antibiotics for vaginal infections, discharge and urinary problems and birth control pills to lighten your menstrual flow.
5. Follow your doctor’s directions. Be sure to take all of your medication as prescribed by your doctor. Contact your doctor if you notice any additional side effects or if the medication does not help your symptoms.
Tags: your doctor, your symptoms, cervical cancer, cervical cancer symptoms, cancer symptoms