Patient Advocacy

  Checklist for reporting symptoms and side effects | Alphabetical list of common symptoms Is the new sensation I'm experiencing related or unrelated to lymphoma or the treatment?  The trend can be informative. Did it come on abruptly?  Does it come and go?   Is it increasing or decreasing in severity over time?    When should I report it to my doctor?   What details may she need to judge if a consult or tests are needed? Checklist for reporting symptoms and side effects:   Alphabetical list of common symptoms or laboratory abnormalities (signs) that may (or may not) be related to lymphoma: It's important to report new unexplained symptoms - particularly when they persist or get worse over time.  Unexplained and persistent: Anemia a laboratory finding of low red blood count associated with the symptom of fatigue from treatment or lymphoma.  Anemia has many causes Appetite loss a symptom such as from fullness Fatigue a symptom such as from anemia, or from depression Fever a symp

Red Flags   * It cures ALL cancers (as if it was one disease) and other diseases. * It's based on a theory but not an actual test of the theory - a clinical trial. * It’s "natural" it has no side effects. * A conspiracy (greed / profit ..) explains why it isn’t prescribed by your doctor * It’s only available in a country that lacks medical regulations. * You can buy it online - without a doctor's prescription. * There’s only one group or person promoting it. * The "evidence" of benefit  is cherry-picked and based on test tube / animal experiments * The claim has not been tested in people – in predefined controlled clinical trials * It is said to “boost the immune system”   (without defining this or providing clinical evidence showing this is effective) * It relies on testimonials Red Flags and Free Speech - a more detailed narrative: While eating well and regular exercise will not cure or treat cancer, these CAN improve your general health and quality of lif