Serotonin – it’s a no-brainer!
This post is based on my own research from authoritative sites, it is my interpretation. There is constant discussion about the effects of serotonin-producing tumours and issues of depression, anxiety, and 'rage'. However, it's a really complex issue for laypeople and I have no intention of trying to resolve it in this article. However, it's clear to me from listening and reading these discussions in patient forums for many years, that most of the discussion appears to be based on years of unsubstantiated and unmoderated debate inside patient forums without professional input. This is not an attempt to bash patient…
Serotonin – the NET effect
Background I'd never heard of Serotonin until I was diagnosed with Neuroendocrine Cancer in 2010. It is frequently discussed, often with contrasting views from the respondents. One common assumption/question is that it is responsible for many things that can go wrong with Neuroendocrine Tumour (NET) patients who have serotonin-producing tumours. To a certain extent, that's true but statement such as "it's the hormones" is an easy assumption to make; or an easy answer to give in response to a complex set of circumstances. It's difficult to get a definitive answer and the science behind the behaviour of our hormones isn't…
Living with Cancer? Take a break if you need one
It's natural to feel low, worried or stressed when we're unwell, and someone with a long-term condition is more likely to experience mental health issues. I once read an article where it suggested that up to 40% of cancer patients suffer from varying degrees of sub-clinical depression. Caring for your mind is when you have a physical health issue can make a big difference to your overall wellbeing so it's worth making the effort to improve if applicable. I learned early on that when you live with any long term illness, getting through the day can be tough. For some…
The psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic on patients with neuroendocrine tumors: Between resilience and vulnerability
I see a lot of emotional and anxiety issues in my private group. I guess cancer diagnoses are involved in much of it adding to the daily issues faced in the general population. Fears for quality of life, fears of dying, fears for how dependents will manage. For the first few years, I myself thought I might not make it. I once wrote an article to help people with perspective and some structure to approaching ways of dealing, this was backed up with videos from psychology and healthcare professionals who deal with cancer patients. February 2020 - boom! Add in a global…
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) – The NET Effect
In my patient support group of almost 10,000+, fatigue is very commonly discussed, and it certainly gets bags of empathy from the readers. I remember being really tired in the first few years after my diagnosis and in the years preceding it. As I was very focused on my work in those days, I was putting it down to the rigours of my working practices, commuting, overnighting, and working far too many hours in a day. In 2010, my diagnosis was triggered by symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia which was almost certainly connected to my cancer and feelings of fatigue for…