An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) and an echocardiogram (echo) are tests that help find problems with the heart muscle, valves, or rhythm. You may need 1 or both of these tests before starting some cancer treatments, like certain chemotherapy or a bone marrow/stem cell transplant. Some people may need other heart tests, too. They can include cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a cardiac stress test, or a multigated acquisition (MUGA) scan.
You will likely want and need support during your cancer treatment. Your health care team, family and friends, and other people with cancer can all support you in different ways. This article gives you information on the types of support available to you and how to ask for help when you need it.
Asking your health care team questions is a good way to learn more about your treatment and follow-up care. In fact, doctors and nurses like to know what concerns you have and what topics may be confusing. Asking questions helps give you more control over your care and cope with cancer and its treatment. Here are some tips to make talking with your doctor easier:
If you are a teenager, let your parents or guardians know that you want to be involved ahead of time so they can make sure you are included.
Your child will likely have many medical tests and procedures. These help doctors learn more about your child's cancer and guide treatment decisions.
It is common for both children and parents to feel anxiety about tests and procedures. But with preparation, you can lower anxiety for you and your child.
Children's fears may depend on their age and personality:
Infants and younger children. Often, they fear being separated from their parents.
Older children. Often, they fear pain.
It is common for people to feel nervous or worried as their surgery approaches. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help you prepare and feel more at ease.
If your parent has cancer, you may feel torn between independence as a young adult and helping your parent. Caregiving can be a rewarding way to reconnect with parents. It may also limit your freedom and ability to explore new opportunities.
As a caregiver for your parent, you may be concerned about how to provide support with limited time and resources. Meanwhile, the lives of your friends may revolve around careers, relationships, and outside interests. These differences may cause you to feel alone in managing your new responsibilities and emotions.
An upper endoscopy allows a doctor to look at the upper part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This area is made up of the:
Esophagus, which is the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach
Stomach
Duodenum, which is the top of the small intestine
An upper endoscopy is also called an upper GI endoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).
Many people diagnosed with cancer find it helpful to be part of a cancer support group. This is a place where you can talk about and work through the feelings and challenges you experience with other people who have gone through similar experiences. Support groups give people diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers a chance to learn from and support each other.
