General advice during cancer care

Nutrition and weight

Aim for adequate intake of food and protein, as tolerated and as medically advised. If appetite is low, smaller, more frequent meals may be easier. Report weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea or mouth sores that interfere with eating. Diets that exclude many foods, fasting and “detox” should not be started without assessment. There is no single diet that cures cancer.

Activity and fatigue

Adapted movement can help function and well-being. Combine light activity with rest and increase gradually as your condition allows. Seek guidance before exercise when there are bone metastases, significant anemia, a risk of bleeding, dizziness or heart problems. New marked fatigue requires assessment and should not automatically be attributed to therapy.

Medicines and supplements

Keep the full list of medicines, vitamins, teas and herbal products. Some products can interact with therapy or damage organs. “Natural” does not always mean safe. Do not change doses and do not stop treatment without contacting the team. For oral anti-tumor drugs, ask for instructions about a missed or vomited dose; do not double it yourself.

Infections and symptoms

Follow hand hygiene and food safety. Discuss vaccines and protective measures with the team, because recommendations vary with treatment. Report new or worsening symptoms early, especially shortness of breath, significant diarrhea and reduced urination. Keep the contacts for help outside visit hours.

Emotional well-being

Talk about anxiety, sleep and difficulties in the family or at work. You are under no obligation to be positive all the time. Psychological support and symptom care can be included throughout treatment. For the family’s side see caring for relatives.

Care at Tirana Polyclinic: we offer oncology consultation, interpretation of results and coordination with other specialties as needed. Advice is adapted to the plan of the center where you receive treatment.