Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event. After the initial shock and confusion, you may have a lot of questions. Your treatment plan, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, will be based on the stage of your cancer. Knowing that your diagnosis is correct and that you are getting the best possible treatment can give you much-needed peace of mind.
Getting a second opinion on your cancer diagnosis is a smart decision. It can give you more information and help you feel confident about your treatment plan.
Why You Might Seek a Second Opinion
There’s no question that cancer is a serious illness. Cancer treatments can be challenging, with side effects that can take a toll on your quality of life. So understandably, you want to be sure that your initial cancer diagnosis is correct. In addition, cancer treatment choices can be complex. You may want to explore all of your options before you begin treatment.
You might seek a second opinion for cancer if:
- You have just been diagnosed with cancer.
- You are unsure about your cancer diagnosis.
- You are not comfortable with your cancer treatment plan.
- Your cancer has come back after treatment.
- You have a rare form of cancer.
- You have cancer and another serious health condition.
In some cases, initial diagnoses can be incorrect. Different forms of cancer can have similar symptoms, and cancer can be difficult to diagnose without specialized tests and imaging.
Types of Cancer and What They Look Like
There are many types of cancer, each with its own set of symptoms. Here is a look at some of the more common types of cancer:
- Lung cancer: Symptoms may include a cough that does not go away, shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
- Ovarian cancer: Symptoms may include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and urinary urgency or frequency.
- Breast cancer: Symptoms may include a lump in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, nipple discharge or changes in the appearance of the nipple, and changes to the skin on the breast.
- Prostate cancer: Symptoms may include trouble urinating, a weak or interrupted urinary stream, and pain or burning with urination.
It’s possible for these symptoms to be caused by conditions other than cancer. But if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor so that the cause can be diagnosed and treated if necessary.
Getting a Second Opinion for Cancer
The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic offers online second opinions for patients from anywhere around the globe. Our specialists have extensive experience in cases just like yours. The recommendations from a specialist who has seen and treated cancer patients like you can give you the confidence you need to make the best decisions about your cancer care.
We’ve made this experience as hassle-free as possible, with no red tape, no travel time, and no need to collect and submit your medical records. And our team moves efficiently, ensuring that patients have their recommendations in hand in just a few days after medical records are collected.
Second Opinions on Cancer from The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic
Whether a second opinion confirms or changes your cancer diagnosis, the peace of mind that comes with knowing more about your specific condition is invaluable.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, we can help. The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic offers online cancer second opinions, so you can get the answers and guidance you need without leaving home. Our cancer specialists have the experience and expertise to provide you with expert recommendations so you can move forward with confidence.
