Cancer Patient Self-Care Guides

Going through cancer and cancer treatment often results in a need for information and understanding of health-related issues beyond what most people not working in health care know.

Uncertainty about the meaning of physical and emotional changes, what can be done to manage them at home, and when to call the doctor may result in stress and anxiety for both patient and family. Having the information you need to actively and effectively participate in your healthcare can make you feel more in control and less anxious.

The self-care guides below are intended as a resource for patients receiving their cancer care at Duke University Hospital and Duke Clinic. They are not intended to substitute for medical advice from your health care team. If your doctor’s instructions differ from the information in the self-care guide, please talk with your doctor before making any changes.

Anxiety

Bisphosphonates -- preventing and treating bone metastasis

Constipation

Depression

Diarrhea

Fatigue

Food and water-borne illness

Mouth problems

Mouth sores

Nausea and vomiting

Pain

Restorative activities