"Not every natural product may be safe for cancer patients"
Radiation Oncology Specialist Dr. Ahmet Büyükyörük drew attention to the importance of physician supervision during the treatment phase for cancer patients, warning that while complementary treatment types may help alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy during the cancer treatment process, there is no evidence that any of them cure cancer.
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Büyükyörük stated that cancer patients also research complementary and alternative methods alongside medical treatments. Emphasizing that complementary treatment types during the cancer treatment process can only help alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Specialist Dr. Ahmet Büyükyörük said, "Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. No product should be used without physician supervision."
"ST. JOHN'S WORT MAY INTERACT WITH SOME CANCER DRUGS"
Stating that patients should consult their doctors even before using vitamins while oncological treatment is ongoing, Dr. Ahmet Büyükyörük said, "Before using any type of complementary treatment, one should consult the doctor following the cancer treatment. Some methods that are generally safe can be risky for cancer patients. For example; St. John's wort may interact with some cancer drugs.
High doses of Vitamin C can alter the effect of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Some fruits such as grapefruit, blood orange, and pomegranate can reduce the breakdown of the drug being used and increase its side effects. Not every treatment works the same way for everyone. Not every natural product may be safe. Some products can make the health of cancer patients more dangerous. No product should be used without doctor supervision," he said.
"CAN BE USED TO ALLEVIATE SIDE EFFECTS"
Stating that effects such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, weight gain, and psychological distress can be experienced during cancer treatment, Specialist Dr. Ahmet Büyükyörük said, "Methods such as physical activity, diet, dietary supplements, mind-body methods, acupuncture, and massage therapy can be combined with traditional treatment to support a person's physical, emotional, and spiritual health. It can help alleviate common side effects of cancer or its treatment such as fatigue, anxiety, pain, and nausea," he said.
Listing the methods frequently preferred worldwide to support cancer treatment and which may help alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, Büyükyörük said, "Acupuncture; can help alleviate nausea and reduce cancer pain and hot flashes.
However, if sterile needles are not used, there may be a higher risk of infection. Aromatherapy; in this treatment, fragrant oils are used to improve health or mood.
It can also help alleviate pain, nausea, stress, and depression. Although generally safe, these oils can cause allergic reactions, headaches, and nausea in some people," he stated.