We sat down with Dr. Patricia Kelly Marsh, CEO and co-founder of Ask Me Your MD, to get the real talk on some common cancer concerns. In a series of informative videos created with NOWINCLUDED, she tackles your questions head-on, offering clear explanations and practical advice.
Here’s what we learned.
Night Sweats: Just Menopause or a Red Flag?
Many women wonder if those dreaded night sweats are just a part of menopause or a sign of something more serious. Dr. Marsh explains that while both menopause and cancer can cause night sweats, there’s a key difference:
- Menopause: Night sweats tend to be isolated, without other accompanying symptoms.
- Cancer: Night sweats often occur alongside fever, fatigue, body aches, and a general feeling of illness. This is due to the body’s immune response fighting the cancer.
Dr. Marsh’s advice? See a doctor if you’re experiencing night sweats along with other concerning symptoms, especially if you’re in the Black community, where certain cancers are more prevalent.
Lumps and Bumps: Don't Panic, But Don't Ignore
Finding a lump or bump can be scary, especially if it doesn’t hurt. Dr. Marsh explains that painless lumps can sometimes be a sign of cancer, such as breast cancer or lymphoma. Her recommendation? Monitor it closely. If it changes in size or color, see a doctor immediately. Early detection is key!
Chemo Brain: Clearing the Fog
Chemotherapy can cause “chemo brain,” a feeling of mental fogginess and difficulty concentrating. Dr. Marsh explains this is due to chemo’s impact on the brain. While it can linger, she offers coping strategies:
- Acceptance: Recognize that chemo brain is common, and your cognitive function may not fully return to its pre-treatment baseline.
- Tools and Strategies: Use calendars, to-do lists, and voice memos to stay organized and compensate for memory challenges.
- Self-Compassion: Be patient with yourself and allow time for your brain to recover.
Nutrition During Treatment: Power Up with Veggies and Water
Proper nutrition is vital during cancer treatment. Dr. Marsh recommends focusing on vegetables and spring water. Vegetables provide essential nutrients, while spring water offers superior hydration and minerals compared to regular bottled water.
Why NOWINCLUDED Partnered with Dr. Marsh
NOWINCLUDED is committed to providing accessible and culturally relevant health information to the Black community. Dr. Marsh’s expertise and approachable style make her the perfect partner to address common cancer concerns and empower individuals to take control of their health.
Want to learn more? Check out the full videos on NOWINCLUDED’s Instagram or TikTok for more informative content from Dr. Marsh.
You Might Also Like:
Preparing for Hair Loss During Lymphoma Treatment
Learn about which lymphoma treatments cause hair loss and what you can do to prepare for this change.
Lung Eligibility Quiz
Find out if you qualify for a lung screening & talk to your healthcare provider.
