CAREGIVER GUIDE
Hormone Therapy Hormone therapy, also called androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), is a common treatment option for patients with advanced prostate cancer. It may also be used with other therapies like radiation for early-stage disease. ADT is designed to stop testosterone from being released or prevent it from acting on prostate cells. This loss of testosterone has side effects in nearly all men. These side effects include loss of bone density, weight gain, increased risk for heart attacks and diabetes, fatigue, mood swings, decreased sexual desire, and ED. Patients may be able to relieve some of these side effects with changes in diet and exercise. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a common treatment option for advanced prostate cancer and includes medications docetaxel (Taxotere) and cabazitaxel (Jevtana). Side effects vary based on medication type and amount, and the overall health of the patient. Significant fatigue is one of the most common side effects, usually experienced during the first week of each cycle. Other side effects include hair loss, numbness or weakness in fingers or toes (neuropathy), nausea, diarrhea, and mouth sores. Chemotherapy can reduce a patient’s white blood cell count and put them at higher risk for infection. Therefore, it is important to report a fever to doctors right away. Other serious side effects, such as not being able to keep food or drink down, should also be reported to doctors so they can be addressed immediately.
“Be patient, your partner is going through a lot. Do your research and share with the patient. Remember, there is always new medical research improving his odds.” Regina Hoover, Prostate Cancer Caregiver
Educate Yourself Understanding the diagnosis, treatment, side effects, and prognosis can help you and your loved one feel more confident. Many studies have shown that informed and involved patients can experience better outcomes. Use trusted resources, such as zerocancer.org , when seeking information for your loved one’s condition.
ZEROCANCER.ORG
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