Post by Rick Redner on Oct 12, 2014 15:43:05 GMT -5
Do you remember where you were when President Kennedy was shot, or where you were when heard the twin towers in NY came down. We tend to have very vivid memories when something traumatic happens. For most men, receiving the news you have prostate cancer is a traumatic event which you will remember vividly.
Some men are told they have prostate cancer by phone, others receive the news in their Doctor's office. Men are given medical information which they may or may not understand at the time. What most men aren't told is there is an emotional component to coping with the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Often feelings of powerful feelings fear, anxiety, sadness and/or panic may be constant companions for a while. You may find it difficult to get to sleep. Thoughts about cancer may invade your daily routine in ways you wish they didn't.
In this highly emotionally charged state you need to make one the most important decisions of your life; how will you treat your prostate cancer. The most common mistake men make at this point is to base their treatment decision on their fears rather than their diagnosis.
There are some cancers that are NOT life threatening, meaning not every cancer requires aggressive treatment. Be certain your your specific cancer requires aggressive treatment before you decide to have your prostate removed.
If you choose surgery, a few days or weeks after surgery, you may find yourself very depressed. Loosing urinary control and living in diapers presents an emotional and physical challenge. Many men who've had nerve sparing surgery find out they won't have an erection for 18-24 months. Whether your impotence is temporary or permanent, many men find themselves ashamed,
Connecting with people further along in the journey of coping with PC is extremely helpful.You can do that on-line or in face to face peer support groups. Whatever is your preference, make it a priority to do this. Some men and couples will need professional counseling as they find themselves unable to adapt to changes in sexuality brought about by surgery. There is no shame in seeking help.
Some men are told they have prostate cancer by phone, others receive the news in their Doctor's office. Men are given medical information which they may or may not understand at the time. What most men aren't told is there is an emotional component to coping with the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Often feelings of powerful feelings fear, anxiety, sadness and/or panic may be constant companions for a while. You may find it difficult to get to sleep. Thoughts about cancer may invade your daily routine in ways you wish they didn't.
In this highly emotionally charged state you need to make one the most important decisions of your life; how will you treat your prostate cancer. The most common mistake men make at this point is to base their treatment decision on their fears rather than their diagnosis.
There are some cancers that are NOT life threatening, meaning not every cancer requires aggressive treatment. Be certain your your specific cancer requires aggressive treatment before you decide to have your prostate removed.
If you choose surgery, a few days or weeks after surgery, you may find yourself very depressed. Loosing urinary control and living in diapers presents an emotional and physical challenge. Many men who've had nerve sparing surgery find out they won't have an erection for 18-24 months. Whether your impotence is temporary or permanent, many men find themselves ashamed,
Connecting with people further along in the journey of coping with PC is extremely helpful.You can do that on-line or in face to face peer support groups. Whatever is your preference, make it a priority to do this. Some men and couples will need professional counseling as they find themselves unable to adapt to changes in sexuality brought about by surgery. There is no shame in seeking help.