Question 1

Does oncology always mean cancer?

Accepted Answer

Oncology is the study of cancer, and the doctors who treat cancer are called oncologists; they are also called cancer specialists.

Question 2

What does an oncologist do on the first visit?

Accepted Answer

Typically, on the first visit, the oncologist may want to look at your medical history; he may ask you a few questions about your health. He/She will then assess your blood reports and scans and, if needed, prescribe additional tests to further assess your health condition.

Question 3

What are the warning signs of cancer?

Accepted Answer

Before coming to any conclusion on your own, it’s good to speak with your general physician, who’d be able to tell if you need to see an oncologist. Here are signs usually associated with cancer that you need to know about

A sore or a wound that does not heal
A change in bowel or bladder movements
Unusual bleeding or discharge
A lump/swelling in the breast or elsewhere
Change in the wart or mole
Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness in the voice or persistent cough
Abnormal weight loss and loss of appetite

Question 4

Does an oncologist only treat cancer?

Accepted Answer

Oncologists are also called cancer specialists. Even though they are knowledgeable about other branches of medicine, they are specifically trained to treat cancer in patients.

Question 5

How long does an oncology appointment last?

Accepted Answer

Typically an oncology appointment can last anything between 20 – 30 minutes.

Question 6

How often should you see your oncologist?

Accepted Answer

If you are a cancer patient, your doctor may advise you to come for a follow-up treatment every 3 – 4 months in the first 2 – 3 years and once or twice a year after that for 3 – 4 years. Consult your oncologist on the number of times you will have to consult them. But if you are not a cancer patient, it’s advisable to get screened for cancer at least once a year.

Question 7

Can you have cancer for years and now know?

Accepted Answer

Some cancers can take months or years to be detected. Therefore, it’s best to get screened for cancer at least once a year to save yourself time and money and prevent health complications in the future.

Question 8

What does cancer fatigue look like?

Accepted Answer

People with cancer describe fatigue as different from the fatigue ordinary people experience; they feel too tired to walk, eat, use the washroom, and this fatigue usually doesn’t go away with rest, unexplained weight loss and appetite. Cancer fatigue is usually accompanied by distress, pain, nausea, vomiting and depression.

Question 9

How do I prepare for an oncology appointment?

Accepted Answer

While it is overwhelming to know that you or your loved one has cancer, it’s comforting to know that they are treatable. One must, therefore, have a positive approach and come well prepared before an appointment. Your oncologist may want to gather information about your medical history and medications. Here are some valuable tips on how to prepare for an appointment with your oncologist:

If possible, bring all your medical records and reports. It’s also helpful to bring along your medications to the appointment if you can’t remember the name of your medicines.
Prepare a list of questions you may want to ask your oncologist, such as,

What’s causing the disease
Diet you may need to avoid/consume
The intensity of workouts/exercises you need to do
Preventive measures you need to take etc.

Let them know about your symptoms, how you have been feeling, etc. Let them know if you have any of the following symptoms.

Extreme fatigue
A sore or a wound that does not heal
A change in bowel or bladder movements
Unusual bleeding or discharge
A lump/swelling in the breast or elsewhere
Change in the wart or mole
Indigestion or difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness in the voice or persistent cough etc.
Abnormal weight loss and loss of appetite

Question 10

Do oncologists care about patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes. They are expected to provide at least a certain level of care to their patients.

Oncologists: Doctors for Cancer Treatment

Who is an oncologist?

What does an oncologist do?

How often should you go to an oncologist?

What degrees do you need to be an oncologist?

How to find a good oncologist?

How to choose an oncologist?

Frequently Asked Questions on Oncologist