As you cope with breast cancer, it is important to have honest, open discussions with your doctor. Ask any question no matter how small it seems. The following are some questions you might want to ask. Nurses, social workers and other members of the health care team may be able to answer many of these questions or if you think of more, don’t hesitate to ask. Knowledge is power and will help you have a more positive outcome.
Additional questions you could ask might include the following:
- Would you please write down the type of cancer I have?
- May I have a copy of my pathology report?
- Has the cancer spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
- What stage is my cancer? What does that mean?
- What treatment choices do I have? What do you recommend and why?
- Am I eligible for clinical trials?
- Will I lose my hair? If so, what can I do about it?
- How long will each treatment last? What can I expect?
- Can I drive myself home after the treatment or will I need help?
- What are the chances of my cancer coming back after the treatment?
- Should I follow a special diet?
- What kind of breast reconstruction is possible in my case?
- Will the treatment cause menopause?
- Can I still have children?
- What should I do to get ready for my treatment?
- Will the treatment affect breast sensation?
- What are my chances of survival based on the type of cancer I have?