Help For Breast Cancer Side Effects

In this medical video learn about a new device, which is being studied that may relieve some of the side effects associated with chemotherapy.

How Stress Affects Breast Cancer

1:05 minutes

What Is Breast Cancer

0:54 minutes

Judy's Advice for Women with Breast Cancer

1:11 minutes

Transcript

Carmel Nail: I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy and started chemotherapy. I am somebody who helps people through these processes and problems, and then here I am having to deal with it, firsthand. Jennifer Matthews: To help her deal with it, Carmel Nail, a nurse, joined a study at the University of Virginia to treat the side effects of breast cancer therapy. Dr. Debra Lyon: There is a pretty high incidence of psychiatric symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Jennifer Matthews: Nurse Researcher Debra Lyon says sleep disturbances and fatigue are also common. Now, she is studying cranial micro-current electrical stimulation for relief. Dr. Debra Lyon: It works much as a homeostatic regulatory type of therapy. We're not changing the current or the energy field in the body, except to re-normalize it. Jennifer Matthews: For one hour a day, women attach these ear clips that send a micro-current to the brain. They activate pathways that relieve symptoms. Carmel has finished the study, but she is still receiving chemotherapy. Carmel Nail: I do experience a little more anxiety, just day-to-day, related to the chemo. I felt probably a little more relaxed while I was utilizing the stimulator device. Jennifer Matthews: Debra hopes the device will be an effective alternative for women. Debra Lyon: My hopes go back to the passion that made me become a nurse in the first place. I want to take care of people and help people to feel better. Jennifer Matthews: This is Jennifer Matthews reporting.