When treatment for your cancer ends, your life as a survivor begins.

The Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center is one of three NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in Houston and offers a variety of resources for people from their initial diagnosis through treatment and remission.

Following the end of your treatment, you may continue to experience physical symptoms that need to be managed by your healthcare team. We’re here to address any post-treatment side effects you might be experiencing, including: 

• Chronic or acute fatigue

• Loss of memory or ability to concentrate (“chemobrain”) 

• Food intolerance 

• New allergies

• Gum disease and other dental problems

• Osteoporosis

• Joint pain

• Neuropathy (numbness or tingling in the hands or feet)

• Buildup of fluids that causes swelling in the extremities (lymphedema)

• Sleep issues

• Depression

Many cancer survivors struggle with the unpredictability of their future. With concerns about cancer recurrences, it’s easy to fall into a rabbit hole of stress. One way to overcome uncertainty is by learning the facts about recurrent and second cancers. Speak with your oncologist about steps you can take to stay as healthy as possible and read up on the cancer screenings needed by people of your age and gender. 

Taking control of an uncertain situation can bring peace of mind.  As you step into a life without cancer, speak with your oncologist to develop a schedule for primary care and specialist appointments. Mapping these out over the coming months can give you a clear path for monitoring your health.