Sometimes we talk about fun/funny things. Sometimes we talk about serious/sad things. And sometimes (albeit I've tried to keep it to a minimum) I go basic and we talk about indisputable truths that many of us don't want to hear about, much less think about. But I feel "dooty" bound to throw these thoughts out there.
Each month, when I show up for my treatment session, I get asked the same barrage of questions. These are intended to track my health through a variety of bodily functions - beyond the mass amount of medical and DNA information that the blood draw provides. Though casual in nature and response (mostly "yes/no"), my answers to their questions tell my nurse and the larger team about aligned aspects of my physiology that are affected by my cancer as well as a harbinger of potential issues with my general health.
Hydrate: It's as simple as the water that it implies. The body is made up of 50 to 75% water, and since we can't store water, we need fresh supplies every day. I know, I know - it's boring, but if you drink a little, try to drink a little bit more. And if you don't drink any, the bar is low, so you don't have far to go to start helping your body with even just a glass or two a day - every day!
Urinate: We are all adults here so don't get all weird when I tell you how important it is to be aware of your pee. Notice the volume, the frequency, any discomfort, and the color - especially if you see any blood in your urine. It sounds ridiculous and obvious, but if any of the aforementioned change dramatically (increase or decrease), be aware of when it starts and how long it lasts. And if it persists, get it checked out. If it's nothing - then all the better, but if it's something, your pee could be the first to know/show.
Defecate: If your eyes are the windows to your soul, then your poop is the window to your health. I'm not going to go into a lecture about fiber or share a stool color chart. But I can tell you that my Doctor always wants to know: how often I go #2, what is the consistency, and do I have any discomfort. Just be aware enough to realize that your gut is trying to tell you something. This is not about too much spicy food or your difficulty digesting dairy (though that's worth noting in itself). It's about the regularity of your regularity and any sudden change in that pattern. You know - you can tell; so don't ignore it.
There, now that wasn't so bad was it? And, you'll thank me one day. Interestingly enough, these three truths (that we hold to be self-evident), are just as telling and important for a person with cancer as one without. Keep them in mind as you go about your "business," and maintain a conspicuous and conscious awareness of YOUR health.
