Skin cancer can be of three major types i.e, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. These affect the 3 types of cells found in the skin epidermis: the top layer are the squamous cells, the basement layer has the basal cells and the melanocytes.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Patients who have been diagnosed with skin cancer.
TREATMENT DURATION
The chemotherapy treatment duration will vary depending on the state of your health and medical history, your age, the stage of your cancer and related factors.
The duration for the various surgeries for skin cancer can range from between 1 to 3 or several more hours.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
The general risks associated with surgery are bleeding, infection, pain, swelling, recurrence of the cancer.
Radiotherapy side effects include: impairments to the salivary glands and teeth, fatigue, changes in skin.
Complications of chemotherapy include hair loss, nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, autoimmune reactions and infusion reactions.
BEFORE TREATMENT
Have a initial consultation with your doctor.
Undergo all necessary screening and diagnostic tests.
Follow pre-op guidelines if you are undergoing surgery.
Arrange for some help at home whilst you’re undergoing treatment.
DURING TREATMENT
Whilst undergoing surgery, you will be placed under general or local anaesthesia.
If you are undergoing radiotherapy sessions, it may be comforting to have a loved one or caregiver to wait out for you.
AFTER TREATMENT
Adhere to post-op guidelines put forth by your surgeon.
If you are suffering from any strong side effects of a treatment, ask your physician if they can provide any additional support.
Rest as much as possible, and try to keep your stress levels low. These will help speed up your recovery.
Spend time with family and friends. You can also seek out emotional support through professional counsellors or at a support group.
