Remission refers to the stage in which all the primary symptoms of cancer or tumor (amyloidosis) disappear after treatment. At this stage, scans will show no trace of tumor or cancerous growth in the body. But, survivors should undergo regular check-ups and physical exams even after successful treatment for any signs of cancer recurrence.
Cancerous growth can recur at any time, and people who have had the disease are always at risk. They will have to carry on different tests and scans for several years following remission. The follow-up of Amyloidosis are designed and followed as per the doctor’s prescription. This will be dependent on the gravity of an individual’s cancer condition. Besides these check-ups, the patients in remission need to follow a healthy, cancer-proof lifestyle. Poor lifestyle can increase the risk of the tumor recurring back in the body.
Today, cancer treatment has come a long way due to the vast number of researches and studies happening. Life expectancy has also improved when compared to the past. Even though there is no definite cure for amyloidosis, treatments and therapies today counter the disease and control symptoms. Chances for increasing life expectancy and raising the comfort and quality of life are high.
The process
Cancer progression and its longevity are determined by the point of origin or location, stage and grade, histology, treatment strategy, and overall individual tumor biology. There are several cases of Amyloidosis remission where the tumor has been brought under complete control and has not shown any signs of metastasis or recurrence for years from then. But there have also been many records of the amyloid tumor recurring aggressively after remission and undergoing metastasis on a rapid range.
In the case of amyloidosis, the greatest challenge to life expectancy is when amyloid deposits affect the heart. The extent of protein accumulation in the heart helps measure the disease gravity. Such damage to the cardiovascular system can indicate a bad sign. Similarly, amyloid protein deposits in the nervous systems, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract can also decide a person’s disease prognosis and survivorship.
With the advent of new treatment protocols and techniques, early diagnosis, ongoing scientific research, revolutionized medicines and better communications between patients and the health care team, the survival rates of people diagnosed with amyloidosis has improved drastically. But the lack of a direct curing technique or treatment procedure is still a challenge in treating amyloidosis.
Managing Stress and Anxiety During Survivorship
A patient’s mental health is another crucial aspect of life in remission of an Amyloidosis (or any cancer in general). Cancer can have a heavy toll on people’s physical and mental health. Battling this condition can be a very stressful and traumatic experience. Some people even lose all hope once diagnosed with cancer. This stress and anxiety haunt people even after successful treatment and remission.
Anxiety before follow-up check-ups post successful treatment is also common among Amyloidosis cancer survivors in remission. Most people find it very difficult and straining to appear for follow-ups, as their thoughts will be preoccupied with fears about a possible recurrence, infiltration or metastasis. People undergo a lot of mental strain before follow-up appointments. These patients are uncertain about their health status. That is why it is essential to provide cancer survivors in remission with all kinds of emotional, mental support and care. And caregivers, loved ones, doctors, and other team members of the health care team play a vital role in boosting a patient’s mental strength.
