“Chemo brain” — the term for cognitive problems associated with chemotherapy treatment — appears to be very common, but doctors only started paying attention to it in the late 1990s. A 2012 study that finally helped elevate chemo brain as a serious and widespread issue estimated that up to 75% of breast cancer survivors experience “cognitive deficits—problems with… Continue reading “Chemo brain”: 3 surprising findings from recent research
Category: Patient Experiences
Circulation issues & ALS
Do you have circulation issues like swelling (also called edema) or a burning (or cold) sensation in your legs and feet? How do you cope? From compression stockings to therapeutic massage and limiting salt intake, PatientLikeMe ALS members are managing their circulation issues in some creative ways. Why do some people with ALS experience poor circulation?… Continue reading Circulation issues & ALS
Home Safety Month: Pointers for “aging in place”
June is National Home Safety Month and there’s a buzz around “aging in place,” so we’ve gathered tips and products that can help today’s (stylish) older adults avoid falls and live well at home for years to come. A top home-safety goal: Fall prevention Falls are a growing problem when it comes to home safety,… Continue reading Home Safety Month: Pointers for “aging in place”
Marijuana/lung cancer: New reporting on potential risks/benefits of cannabis
Medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) are getting a lot of media coverage — so what’s the latest, as it relates to lung cancer? See two recent high-profile articles that weigh the possible risks and benefits of cannabis for cancer and respiratory disease. And add your perspective. (Psst, checkout past PatientsLikeMe write-ups on medical marijuana and CBD for some background.)… Continue reading Marijuana/lung cancer: New reporting on potential risks/benefits of cannabis
Age-By-Age Guide To Navigating Reproductive Health With Lupus
Lupus can affect your reproductive health in a variety of ways throughout your life and can raise the risks of complications during pregnancy. Thanks to medical advances, the chances of having a safe pregnancy have improved — the key is careful planning. Check out this timeline of gynecological and reproductive health considerations when you have… Continue reading Age-By-Age Guide To Navigating Reproductive Health With Lupus
Parenting with bipolar II: Alysia’s story
Meet Alysia, a member of the 2018 PatientsLikeMe Team of Advisors who’s living with bipolar II disorder. Here’s what she had to say about parenting with a mental health condition, learning to adapt and how she “defies the odds.” When I was younger I wrote stories about my alter ego who had kids. I lived almost… Continue reading Parenting with bipolar II: Alysia’s story
The Difference Between Service Animals, Therapy Animals and Emotional Support Animals
When it comes to living with a chronic condition, animal companions can add another layer of comfort, safety and service. So, we’re opening up a conversation about therapy, emotional support and service animals, and the differences between them. Do you have an animal? Join the community and share a pic of your pet. Service animals According to the Americans… Continue reading The Difference Between Service Animals, Therapy Animals and Emotional Support Animals
The Benefits of Forest Bathing
If frequent, long workouts aren’t in the cards, here’s some good news: A new research analysis based on decades’ of studies shows the potential mental health perks of even just a smidgen of light exercise. Also, see the results of a Japanese study on something called “forest bathing.” Exercise linked to good vibes “Even a Little Exercise… Continue reading The Benefits of Forest Bathing
CyberKnife, VATS + other surgical and less invasive treatments for lung cancer
Surgery is among the most common treatments for people with lung cancer. Let’s take a closer look at various types of surgery for lung cancer, as well as emerging non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments, like CyberKnife or “SBRT,” cryosurgery and “VATS.” Huh? Read on… we’ll explain. Common types of lung cancer surgery Before we explore… Continue reading CyberKnife, VATS + other surgical and less invasive treatments for lung cancer
Parkinson’s disease + anxiety/depression: Stigma-busting for Mental Health Month
Stress. Anxiety. Depression. Have you experienced any of these along with Parkinson’s disease (PD)? As National Mental Health Month comes to a close, we’re highlighting how common these non-motor symptoms and mental health issues are among people with PD. Plus, see some new research on the prevalence of feeling demoralized (vs. depressed) with PD, and… Continue reading Parkinson’s disease + anxiety/depression: Stigma-busting for Mental Health Month