Inflammatory breast cancer leads to the blockage of the lymphatic vessels in the breast, causing tissue to turn red, swollen and painful. The National Cancer Institute defines the disease as a rare but aggressive form of cancer. For many patients, there is no lump or mass. Instead, the breast becomes warm and enlarged. The surface area may appear to have spot bruising or discoloration. According to NCI, the five-year survival rate for IBC is between 25 percent to 50 percent. Once diagnosed, patients must find a way to cope with their condition and treatment.
Step 1
Make a list of questions you have for your doctor. Becoming informed about your condition will help you understand what is happening to your body and make treatment choices. Talk to your family and let them help you decide what to ask.
Step 2
Join a support group in your area to help you understand treatments and talk to others who are going through the same thing. Being part of a community of others suffering from the same condition or a similar situation will put you face to face with those who know what you are going through.
Step 3
Go online to find forums, blogs and message groups for breast cancer survivors. Finding hope in someone else may help you discover avenues of coping in your own life.
Step 4
Take a friend when you go for treatments or checkups. Have someone by your side to keep you company while you deal with doctors or medical personnel. A friend nearby may help you cope with time delays, side effects and difficult treatments.
Tips and Warnings
- A serious and possibly life-threatening disease affects more than just the victim. The people in your life will have questions, too. Sit down as a couple or group and create a list of things you need to know, then you can learn more together. Networking may open up treatment opportunities or clinical trials to you. Check organizations and online groups that specialize in breast cancer.
