Preparing for your treatment
You may feel that beginning treatment for aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a bit overwhelming, but there are many things you can do to prepare yourself for your treatment visits that will make the experience easier and help you feel more in control of your situation.
Concentrate on looking after yourself during your first treatment
If possible, think about taking time off during treatment so you can concentrate on looking after yourself during your therapy schedule
The treatment schedule for induction therapy or radiotherapy can be intense and you are likely to feel quite tired. It may be a good idea to take a break from work and other activities, at least for a while.
Due to the need to treat aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) quite soon after diagnosis, you may not have time to prepare things exactly as you would like. If possible, you should speak to your employer and make any necessary financial arrangements, ideally before you start treatment; you may be surprised to find that your employer is very helpful and supportive.
If you are unsure as to whether you are entitled to any benefits, or have any other concerns, talk to the doctor or nurse at your clinic. They will be able to help you find out more information.
Remember to eat a healthy balanced diet during your treatment
To feel at your best during treatment, it is crucial to try to eat healthily. This might not be easy if you are feeling tired or unwell due to the therapy, but it is important that you make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
Changing your eating habits to fit in better with your therapy schedule, such as eating several small meals rather than three large ones, is one thing that might help.
More tips for eating healthily if you have aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Recognise that having non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can sometimes be stressful, especially during treatment, and think about how you will cope with this
Being diagnosed with cancer such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), is an emotional and stressful experience for most people. This can be especially true during treatment, when you have to cope with the new experiences and the demanding treatment schedule.
Aggressive NHL can be particularly stressful due to the speed with which your treatment normally follows the diagnosis.
So that you can concentrate on getting through the treatment and focus on the weeks and months ahead, it is important that you recognise and try to deal with these feeling of stress if they arise.
Relaxation techniques can be of great benefit, for example, as they can be performed in almost any situation and can help you feel a sense of control over your feelings. Benefits also include reductions in aches and pains as a result of muscular tension, better preparation for sleep, and lower levels of tiredness.
If you are thinking of using relaxation techniques, you should speak to your healthcare team, as they may be able to refer you to a local occupational therapy department, which can help you devise a routine of techniques.
The most important thing is to remember that you are not alone. There are many organisations and support groups for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in your local area – and nationally – who are there to help you deal with any issues and listen to your story.
Your nurse may also be able to put you in touch with a suitable local organisation.
Think about what will happen during your treatment visit for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
If you are visiting the hospital for your first treatment, it is very likely that you might have to stay in overnight, and in some cases for longer. This will depend on your personal treatment plan.
If you’re not sure what to expect, you should check with your contact on the lymphoma team, such as the clinical nurse specialist or haematologist. They will be able to answer any questions about your visit before you arrive.
You may also have been asked to take things with you to the treatment visit, such as medical records, for example. It is important that you have thought about this in advance, so that you remember to take everything with you that’s been asked for.
Checking with your healthcare team about what to bring and what will happen will give you more confidence on the day.
If you’re staying overnight or longer, think about what you’ll wear while you’re in hospital and what you’ll do between treatments or tests. Books or games can help pass the time.
Remember to bring any medication that you’re currently taking with you, and make sure you’ll have enough for the length of your stay.
Preparing for hospital/doctor visits if you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Questions to ask the doctor about aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Treatment for aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (MHL) can cause a number of side effects. Although these can be unpleasant, it is always worth remembering that the therapies are all designed to be effective in treating NHL and lead to a cure or remission. Follow these links to find tips for dealing with some of the more common side effects that you might experience.
Find out more about managing nausea and vomiting if you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Find out more about managing hair loss if you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Find out more about managing fatigue if you have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma