Many people are interested in alternative skin cancer treatment for a wide variety of reasons. Some are concerned about the possible side effects of chemotherapy and other conventional treatments for cancer. Others are concerned about the high cost of cancer treatment. Of course, there are other reasons people might want to know about a skin cancer alternative treatment, as well.
While we are generally in favor of alternative medicine, we are not aware of any alternative remedies that have been proven effective for skin cancer. We don’t want you to delay potentially lifesaving treatment while trying unproven alternative remedies. There are medical treatments for skin cancer with a very high rate of success, so we encourage you to learn more about those options.
If You Are Concerned about Side Effects
If you are concerned about the side effects of conventional treatment for cancer, you might be relieved to know that skin cancer can often be treated with a simple surgical procedure. Sometimes the procedure can even be done in your doctor’s office.
Sometimes chemotherapy is recommended for skin cancer, but this is not the type of chemotherapy you probably think of when you hear that word. Chemotherapy just means therapy, or treatment, involving the use of chemical substances, such as anti-cancer drugs. When chemotherapy is used for skin cancer, it is frequently administered topically, meaning it is applied to the skin in the form of a lotion or cream. Sometimes it is administered by intravenous line, but generally only if cancer has spread. When it is administered topically, chemotherapy doesn’t have as many severe side effects as it does when administered intravenously.
Of course, those are not the only possible treatments for skin cancer, and you may experience some side effects of skin cancer treatment. The side effects may not be as bad as you think they will, though. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options and the potential side effects, as well as what can be done to prevent or minimize the side effects. You can read more about the treatment of skin cancer here.
Managing Side Effects
While we are not aware of any alternative skin cancer treatment with a proven track record, there are alternative remedies that can help you manage the potential side effects of skin cancer treatment. For instance, peppermint or ginger tea can relieve nausea. Acupuncture might help reduce pain and anxiety. The grape seed extract is high in antioxidants and might help your skin heal after surgery or radiation treatments. None of these things treat skin cancer itself, but they can help you manage the side effects of treatment and cope with the effects of cancer.
Talk to your doctor about natural remedies that may complement your cancer treatment. Unfortunately, some doctors aren’t very familiar with alternative medicine. If yours isn’t, consider making an appointment with a naturopath, chiropractor, or other health care professional that may be able to give you more information. Just make sure to let all your health care professionals know about all medications, vitamins, herbs, and other supplements you take, as well as about all treatments you’re undergoing.
If You Are Concerned about Cost
If you are looking for information about an alternative skin cancer treatment because you are concerned about the cost of treatment, we encourage you to discuss your concerns with your doctor. Your doctor may be able to make payment arrangements with you. If you will be receiving treatment at a hospital, contact the billing office. Hospitals often have funds available to allow for reduced fees for patients that can’t afford to pay full price for treatment. A hospital social worker may be able to help you figure out how to pay for the treatment you need, as well. Finally, you should find out if you qualify for Medicaid, a program in the United States, that covers medical expenses for people with low incomes. Under the U.S. Affordable Care Act, more people are now able to qualify. You can learn more about Medicaid in your state, and find out where and how to apply, at Medicaid.gov.
If You Are Interested in Alternative Skin Cancer Treatment
Of course, concern about side effects and concern about cost are not the only reasons people are interested in alternatives to skin cancer treatment. If you are interested in skin cancer alternative treatment, we encourage you to talk with your doctor, dermatologist, or oncologist. Let your doctor know why you’re interested in alternative treatment and ask about all your options.