Maybe I should post this here...

Options
MrsH
MrsH Member Posts: 96
edited June 2014 in Complementary and Holistic Medicine and Treatment

Is there such a thing as a holistic oncologist? It took me years to find someone to take my symptoms seriously and I was finally diagnosed with a systemic candida infection and leaky gut syndrome by a holistic, but also western doc. 6 mos. later came my breast cancer Dx. I battled back the candida and have been working towards creating optimal levels in my body, but my Vit. D has been low (coming up), I've had a high-TPO (thyroid antibodies) that are coming down, high cholesesterol, some adrenal fatigue, brain fog, anxiety and depression, plus food sensitivities and bloating. All of these have been addressed and through some anti-fungal treatment and significant diet changes, I am doing much better (most symptoms are gone), but am now dealing with cancer. I sought out a 2nd opinion for oncology and the Dr. was dismissive of the candida, like most western docs. His suggestion was Tamoxifen or oophorectomy and blasted me when I suggested the side effects for either would be challenging, suggesting of course maybe I was moody to begin with (ugh!). His personality aside, I'm starting to think that either is not really an option for me. How do I find an oncologist who will take my body chemistry seriously and helpe me to use alternative methods, possibly alongside traditional therpay, to avoid reccurance? Is there such a thing as a holistic oncologist? Thanks :-)

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • Jomama2
    Jomama2 Member Posts: 96
    edited February 2013

    I would suggest looking for an "integrative oncologist", or a naturopath who deals with cancer issues primarily...also, you may try finding a doctor who practices "functional medicine" with BC as a specialty.  My funds don't really allow for practices outside of traditional meds, but I am fortunate to have a BS who "get it".  (My onc doesn't)  Good luck to you in your search!  Hopefully, some of the ladies who are very conversant in alt therapies will be of more help.  Joan

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Joeybirdie5311
    Joeybirdie5311 Member Posts: 23
    edited February 2013

    I live in Northern Michigan.  I knew there wasn't any kind of holistic oncologist up here....so when I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, I knew I had to take matters into my own hands.  My husband and I researched to great lengths to find just the right natural treatment for me.  After six months....I was tested and they found no cancer cells.  I had no side effects and felt wonderful during the whole treatment. 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • exbrnxgrl
    exbrnxgrl Member Posts: 12,424
    edited February 2013

    Joeybird,

    You have an interesting story. Would you mind filling in your diagnosis line? This will really help women whose dx's are similar to yours. Thanks!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Hipline
    Hipline Member Posts: 195
    edited February 2013

    I sought out both an integrative oncologist and naturopath after my diagnosis. It was very helpful to me and they gave me tremendous advice on supplements. My lifestyle was already pretty healthy but they can advise on that too. I do not see them all the time as they are not under insurance but after a few visits i was on the right track. I wasted some money on a nutritionist and won't make that mistake again. Too rigid in following guidelines and not thinking outside the box and not taking the time to learn about the specifics of my cancer.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited February 2013

    I've finally just made an appt to see an integrative oncologist next month in Phoenix.  I'm happy to consult with someone who can tailor a plan for me instead of my hit-or-miss approach to supplements, diet, and the like.

    Unfortunately, insurance probably won't cover the cost of the $240 visit, but it's well-worth it to me to have a plan that I can follow.  My naturopath recommended him, so I feel good about the information I'll get.

    Claire

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MrsH
    MrsH Member Posts: 96
    edited February 2013

    I have an appt. next week. Claire, your doc is a bargain compared to mine - it's more than double! But, I think it will give me peace of mind to know I'll be working with someone who deals with a lot of cancer holistically :-)

    Hipline, I used to live in Santa Monica, until we moved to FL 3.5 years ago. People here are not all that friendly and I'm not used to it. It's part of what makes me think I ended up with cancer. I miss the days of rolling down the bike path. It's so hot here, it's no fun to exercise outside, especially when the humidity is at 98% - ugh - don't get me started!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories