Q:   I'm experiencing severe pain but I'm afraid that I'll become addicted to these heavy-duty drugs. What should I do?
A:   First, talk to your health care professional. Don't accept pain because you have cancer. It can be managed with help from knowledgeable health care professionals. Many myths about pain still exist. The most troubling one is that too much medication will cause addiction. But studies have shown this to be completely false. Addiction is a psychological or emotional dependence on feeling high. People with cancer do not take drugs to get high but to relieve their pain. When the proper dosage of medication is taken around the clock, addiction does not occur.

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Q:   I have no appetite from the cancer and the chemotherapy. Everything I put down comes up, so what's the use of eating?
A:   You must eat as much as you can while you are having treatment. People who eat well and drink lots of fluids can deal with side effects better and are better able to fight infection. In addition, their bodies can rebuild healthy tissues faster. Even when you know it's important to eat well, there may be days when you feel you just can't. You may be interested to know that cancer generally decreases appetite. Chemotherapy also affects your appetite because it affects how your food tastes and simply having lung cancer can also wipe out your appetite. When your appetite is poor, try these strategies:

• Eat small meals or snacks whenever you want. You don't have to eat three regular meals each day.
• Vary your diet and try new foods and recipes. Some patients find that cold foods are easier to tolerate, as the smell of cooking foods may be a "turnoff".
• When possible, take a walk before meals to make you feel hungrier.
• Try changing your mealtime routine. For example, eat by candlelight or in a different location.
• Eat with friends or family members. When eating alone, listen to the radio or watch TV.
• If you live alone, you might want to arrange for Meals on Wheels or a similar program to bring food to you.
• Drink as much as you can. Small amounts consumed often will help keep enough fluids in your body. You may find Popsicles, gelatins and ice cream good substitutes for other liquids.

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Q:   I am so depressed about having lung cancer that I feel I cannot go on.
A:   You need help dealing with your feelings. You should immediately seek help from a counselor, therapist, social worker or clergy member. Ask your health care team about what services are available. It may also help to join a support group of people who are living with cancer. Talking with other people who understand and can relate to many of the same issues you are coping with can be a great help.

Copyright 2003
National Women's Health Resource Center Inc. (NWHRC).

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