HEALTH INSIGHTS

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Treatment Questions

By Chase, Jennifer 
 | 
September 24, 2017

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Treatment Questions

Talking with healthcare providers about cancer can be overwhelming. It can be hard to take in all of the information. It helps to be prepared. Be sure to:

  • Make a list of questions and bring them to your appointments. Write the answers down in a notebook.

  • Ask how the treatment might change your daily life, including your diet.

  • Ask how you will look and feel after treatment.

  • Ask how successful the treatment is expected to be.

  • Ask what the risks and possible side effects are.

You may also want to ask a friend or family member to come with you. He or she can take notes and write down the answers, and also ask questions you may not think of. You can also ask your healthcare provider if you can record the conversation.

Below are some questions to ask during your appointments.

Deciding on a treatment

  • What type and stage of lymphoma do I have?

  • Are there other tests that need to be done before we can decide on treatment?

  • How soon do we start treatment?

  • How much experience do you have treating this type of lymphoma?

  • What are the treatment choices?

  • What treatment do you think is best for me?

  • What is the goal of the treatment you are recommending?

  • What is the success rate of this treatment for my type and stage of lymphoma?

  • Are there any clinical trials I should consider?

 Getting ready for treatment

  • How long will the treatment period be?

  • How long will each treatment take?

  • Where do I have to go for the treatment?

  • Who is involved in giving me the treatment?

  • Does someone need to go with me during the treatment?

  • Can I take my other medicines during the treatment period?

 Coping during treatment

  • What side effects can I expect to have?

  • How long will side effects last?

  • Are there side effects that I need to call you about?

  • How do I reach you after hours and on weekends?

  • What can I do to ease the side effects?

  • Will I be able to go to work and be around my family?

  • Should I change my diet? What foods can’t I eat?

  • Are there support groups nearby that I can join?

  • Are there any websites you would recommend?

After treatment

  • How will I feel after the treatment?

  • What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?

  • How will we know if treatment worked?

  • Are there any long-term side effects I need to watch for?

Updated:  

September 24, 2017

Reviewed By:  

Alteri, Rick, MD,LoCicero, Richard, MD