Do you accept insurance? Our developers are working on an insurance solution which we expect to launch soon. However, we offer custom formulated prescription medications, specifically tailored to the needs of oncology patients at a price equal to most insurance co-pays.
Even before my cancer was diagnosed, I noticed changes in my skin, hair, and nails. How do I know whether these changes were related to the cancer? And will treating my cancer improve these problems? Many conditions such as dry and itchy skin, brittle nails, and hair loss naturally occur with age. And because up to 80 percent of cancers are diagnosed in people over the age of 50, it’s difficult to know whether aging or the cancer is responsible. In one out of 100 people, changes in the skin are linked to cancer, and they are known as paraneoplastic (from the Greek words para, which means alongside, and neoplasia, which means new growth). Paraneoplastic skin conditions will usually improve when the underlying cancer is treated.
My lips are very dry and chapped, so I lick them to keep them moist. Is this OK? No. Frequently (at least four times a day) use ointments (such as petroleum jelly [regular Vaseline or Vaseline Lip Therapy Petroleum Jelly, Advanced Formula]).Try to avoid licking them. Saliva is irritating and can make dryness worse. In cases where there is lip pain with cracking, use a topical corticosteroid (hydrocortisone 2.5% ointment) applied together with an antibacterial (Polysporin First Aid Antibiotic Ointment); up to three times a day is a useful treatment for several weeks at a time.
I was told to apply only a moisturizer (such as Aquaphor, Bag Balm, or one containing aloe vera) to the skin that will receive radiation, skin that will become very dry. Is there anything else I should do? Yes, there is definitely something better you can do, especially if you are treated with radiation for breast, head and neck, and genital cancers, since most people will experience pain, dryness, itching, and discomfort. The “dryness” is a consequence of the damage and inflammation, with subsequent peeling of dead skin cells that results from radiation. Consequently, treating the inflammation and the peeling skin is critical, and the only products that have been shown to help are moisturizers containing calendula and topical corticosteroids. These products should be applied during the entire treatment time, at least once daily on the area of skin receiving radiation.