Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office?

Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help.

Q: A loved one was recently diagnosed with cancer and I am unsure how to talk to my child about it. What suggestions do you have?

A: When talking to a child about cancer, I recommend:

Honesty. Use simple, clear language. Speak slowly and keep sentences short. Pause and allow time for children to process the information. Children may ask detailed questions. It is OK to say you don’t know

the answer, but that you will find out.

Age-appropriate language. An 8-year-old will comprehend differently than a 15-year-old. Allow children to ask questions and let them know it is fine if they do not have any. Leave the door open to talk again.

Express feelings. Saying something like, “I’m sad this is happening,” or “This is scary,” can be helpful.

Different reactions. Children may be quiet, while others may express strong emotions.

Reassurance. Kids under age 10 may worry that they caused the cancer or wonder if they can “catch” cancer. Some children may need the comfort of knowing there will always be someone to care for them.

Talking about cancer can be tough. But these tips, a quiet and distraction-free space, and being mindful of your mood and energy can help offer comfort.

— Lisa-Paula da Silva, MSW, LCSW, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center Radiation Oncology

Q: I’ve been experiencing occasional breast pain. Is this common for women or could it be a sign of something more serious, like cancer?

A: Breast pain is common for many women, with up to 70% experiencing it at some point in their lives. It can feel like soreness, throbbing, stabbing or a sense of heaviness. While breast pain can be uncomfortable and frustrating, it has no direct link to an increased risk of breast cancer.

The causes of breast pain are often hormonal and multifactorial, making treatment challenging. Certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing breast pain, including larger breast size, previous breast surgery or specific medications. Other contributors of breast pain can include a high-fat diet, caffeine, chocolate, nuts, cheese, smoking or vaping, bra underwires, excessive or prolonged lifting activities and stress.

While small lifestyle changes can help, it is important to understand what is normal for your breasts and to discuss any persistent pain with your doctor to explore management strategies. However, if your breast pain is accompanied by a new lump, bloody nipple discharge, skin changes or indentation of the breast, you should notify your doctor promptly.

— Rachel Shirley, DO, FACS, Samaritan Breast, Reconstruction & Surgical Oncology

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