A treatment option in health care refers to a specific method or approach used to manage, reduce symptoms, or cure a health condition.
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Understanding your treatment options helps to empower you to make informed decisions about health condition and care, while focusing on the best approach for your specific needs.
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- Your physician and specialist outline treatment options to you based on recent research for your best outcome based on your individual situation.
- Know that treatment plans are based on the aggressiveness or the disease, your present health status, and any personal of family history.
- Learn about the treatments your physician or specialist recommends. Ask about any potential risks, discomforts during or after the treatments, and possible side effects to be aware of.
- Learn more about the various treatment options as described by Healthlink BC.
- Explore various treatments described in detail by the Canadian Cancer Society.
- Review the list below of potential treatment options when diagnosed with a health condition.
- Medications are prescribed to treat or manage symptoms, control disease progression, or prevent complications associated with a health condition.
- Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells and is commonly used in cancer treatment.
- Hormone therapy is used to replace or regulate hormones in cases of hormonal imbalances, such as in menopause, thyroid disorders, or certain cancers.
- Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to shrink or destroy tumors, primarily used in cancer treatment.
- Surgery may be recommended to remove, repair, or replace damaged tissue or organs, or to treat conditions that do not respond to other treatments.
- Diet and nutrition changes with special diets, supplements, or nutritional counseling can help manage or treat conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity.
- Physical therapy helps restore movement, strength, and function, often after surgery or injury, and can manage chronic conditions like arthritis or back pain.
- Lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity, stress management, and quitting smoking, are often recommended to manage chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or obesity.
- Pain management techniques, including medications, nerve blocks, physical therapy, and psychological approaches, are used to alleviate chronic pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis.
- Psychotherapy & counselling provides emotional support and helps individuals cope with mental health conditions, trauma, or stress through counselling or talk therapy.
Things You Can Do
- Record all your tests and treatments in your Health Profile including any allergic reactions or side effects.
- Learn what treatment options are available to you, such as medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, and/or surgery.
- Use research-based websites, such as government health portals or medical organizations, to learn more about your diagnosis and health conditions.
- Ask for a second opinion, if needed, to confirm your prognosis and explore additional options or treatments.
- Review treatment options being recommended to you by your physician or specialist by asking questions like those suggested by Healthlink BC.
- Track your symptoms or side effects, so you can discuss changes and treatment options with your physician or specialist.
- Learn how to participate in your health care visits and record your health information.
- Know about your patient rights including informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, and the right to refuse or accept care.
Mywell Health helps you learn about and organize your health information in one place. Add your treatment information into your Health Profile fillable PDF tool and record dates for treatments in your health calendar in My Health Information.