Lymphoma/Leukemia Do's and Don't

[utahmomma]

I tried posting this to the lymphoma/leukemia forum but have not received a response so I'll try here.

I have all of the symptoms of either leukemia or lymphoma (labs and physical symptoms) and three doctors concur and have referred me to a hematologist/oncologist for further testing/diagnosis/treatment.  All of the doctors (Internist, Allergist, and Rheumatologist) are leaning towards lymphoma but cannot rule out leukemia.  Anyway, my appointment with the oncologist is Jan 8th.

Here is my question.  Because of the severe bone/muscle/abdominal pain and all of the stress my fiance bought me a 90-minute massage.  The massage therapist was talking to me before the massage and when I told her I was going to be evaluated for lymphoma/leukemia she told me she cannot massage a patient with those cancers because of the impact on the lymphatic system and the chance of metastases.  After I thanked her I went into the steam room and bawled for 10 minutes before I thought "well, is a steam room or hot shower/bath also bad?".  

All of my doctors are pretty much out of town until January so, here is it:  What are the things you are NOT supposed to do with lymphoma or leukemia?  I can't find a reference anywhere.

Thanks!

Utahmomma
papillary carcinoma '03, 2nd surgery '04, recurrence and RAI '06
huge family history of breast/thyroid/ovarian and other cancers

[utahmomma]

Thanks so much!

[iam1butterfly]

Good luck with the upcoming appointment... my prayers are with you.

[utahmomma]

Miscellany,

Iam1butterfly makes a very good point. I had no heat or massage restrictions at all with my thyroid cancer - in fact both were recommended to help break down the scar tissue from the surgery.  That is why I was asking about the possible leukemia/lymphoma - until I was turned away for a massage at the spa I hadn't even considered it could be spread so easily.

[iam1butterfly]

Yeah... trying to stay warm when you're always cold does present its challenges...
my mom kept the wall furnace on a lot of the time. So, she had a warm, comfortable environment without being subjected to direct contact with the source of heat.  
I'm also thinking that one other consideration might be the kind of Cancer one has. My mom's Cancer is in her lymphatic system... so, most of her body is affected by the Cancer. Therefore, much of her body had to be protected from excessive heat exposure. But, if the Cancer is isolated... say, like if one is dealing with Breast Cancer... then, of course, the breast(s) would be the primary areas to protect from direct heat contact. Anyway, I hope that I've been able to give you a few helpful insights. Take care and good luck with your upcoming biopsy. I hope that your pathology report returns with favorable results.

By the way, I see that your profile says Solana Beach. I was in that area this afternoon, walking along the beach near Torrey Pines... with my mom. Beautiful!

[utahmomma]

Thank you so much!   I was wondering about that sitting in the steam room crying.  Heat is the only thing that helps stop the abdominal pain so that's out now.  :-(

My body temperature is crazy lately - normal temperatures then will start a drenching sweat and spike a low-grade fever for a few minutes (around 100 degrees) then I'm freezing cold.  This happens all night too.   Doesn't help that I have no thyroid or ovaries.  :-/     Stupid cancer.

Hives are back with a vengeance - all on the right side of my body.  No antibiotics or prednisone for me until after the oncologist (if my WBC stays below septic levels) so we don't mess up any labs.

Thank you so much for the insight - I'll avoid the heat (sniffle) - my legs already look sunburned but they haven't seen the sun for years.  

Again, thank you for all of your insight!!!

Hugs

Utah
(appointment with the oncologist 8 Jan)
papillary carcinoma '03, recurrence '06

[miscellany]

I just had a quick question about your above comment regarding "heat" and cancer. I may or may not have it (undergoing testing now-- biopsy was on 12/18). I am always cold-- very cold and just bought an electric blanket... I have a floor heater and wear layers of shirts/sweaters... Since I am concerned about the test results I was wondering what a person with Cancer who is always cold supposed to do to be comfortable?
I am just curious to any insight...
Thanks much.

[iam1butterfly]

hi utahmomma... it's me again, I'm the woman whose mother has the Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I'm so sorry to hear that you're going through such a rough time.
In answer to your question... heat is a big "no-no" for all Cancer patients... especially, for those who are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatments. But, with or without treatments... excessive (long term; high intensity) heat should be avoided. An example would be excessive exposure to sunlight (which probably isn't a problem during this time of the year); but, it's something to be considered. Another example would be the application of hot compresses; soaking in a hot tub; and lengthy and direct contact with electric blankets. The issue with heat is that it stimulates growth... and Cancer cells are fast growing cells. So, the two aren't good together. Another no-no are certain types of foods that are know to have carcinogenic qualities... i.e. anything that's been grilled, smoked, pickled, or heavily spiced.
I hope that this info gives you some insights... and you're right... there isn't a whole lot of written information available on the subject. When I asked about lifestyle recommendations and nutritional changes for my mom, the usual response was a blank stare. I had to probe and pry the information that I got from countless doctors, nurses and technologists.
Take care and God bless.