Growing advances in medicine has given rise to unconventional methods for treating various conditions. Apart from the conventional medicine, people today are also opting for Complementary and Alternative medicines (CAM) to treat cancer and its side effects. Whether or not you choose to use CAM is a personal decision, but you must make an informed decision and be aware of various aspects of CAM. Firstly, it is important to understand the difference between complementary, alternative and integrated medicines. You should make yourself acquainted with the various therapies available and their risks and benefits. Lastly, you should consult your cancer specialist in order to determine whether these therapies are safe to undertake along with the traditional therapies.
Complementary Therapy
This therapy involves using medicines or procedures which are not conventional and are aimed at alleviating the pain of the patient. It is a holistic approach and usually uses naturally occurring substances.
Complementary medicine does not replace the standard medicine, but in fact works along with it to help patient overcome pain and other side effects associated with cancer treatment and symptoms. It promotes overall health.
Many colleges and universities offer courses and training in these therapies, however they are not a part of the standard patient care. Some of the examples of Complementary medicine include Acupuncture to ease nausea, Yoga to ease body pain and to relax etc.
The purpose of complementary medicine is not to treat the cancer but is to help the patients overcome stress and alleviate pain.
Alternative Therapy
Alternative therapy, unlike complementary therapy, is used in place of standard treatment. It completely replaces conventional medicine and is usually not scientifically proven. Although it is a personal decision, it is not advisable to replace standard practices with alternative methods as it could have serious health problems and complications. Examples of alternative therapies include Chinese medicines, Homeopathy, Naturopathy etc. These medicines and therapies use natural substances and include mind- body interventions in order to enhance the overall well- being. Many people are opting for these therapies as they are said to have lasting effects on the body. But patients fail to realize that many times it is a mere placebo effect that causes alleviation of pain and in reality they condition maybe deteriorating. It is advisable to consult your cancer specialist before making any decisions.
Over the years there are extensive studies carried out in order to procure a lasting cure for cancer. People, in their desperation to get rid of cancer, turn to alternative approaches. Although the aforementioned therapies promote overall well being, they are not the sole cure for cancer. Therefore an integrated approach should be adopted wherein both, conventional medicines as well as CAM should be utilized for the maximum benefit of the patient and to help him overcome the disease as well as its side- effects successfully.
