mammogram alternative

[xtreme_right]

Has anyone here ever had a thermogram? After reading up on them, I don't know why it isn't more popular. No radiation, and supposedly more accurate than a mammogram.

I vowed to never have a mammogram. I found a lump this week so had to readdress the issue. After reading about different types of breast lumps, I convinced myself it is benign. At the same time I started researching alternatives to mammograms. I decided that it was still a good idea to get the thermogram to put my mind at ease (and DH's too) and to have a baseline for later.

I have to wait a week for the results to come back, then go in for the consultation.

xr

 

[rockcreek]

I just now saw this sorry. I looked into thermography too. Looks like the way to go. Asked my doctor about it and he said they are still new and he recommends a mammogram with it. I couldn't find anyone here that does thermography. How was your results?

 

[Josie]

Oh, I didn't see this till now either. I've been interested in the thermogram, too. But it's just too new to make me feel comfortable. As much as I totally hate the mamogram, I'll be sticking to it for now.

 

[xtreme_right]

My results came back abnormal. It was recommended I get either a mammogram or sonogram. I have read alot about thermograms this past month and see that it's like any other alternative treatment. Most doctors will poo-poo it and say it's not accurate. Thermograms supposedly can detect cancer up to 10 years before a mammogram can. I've read accounts of doctors asking why get one if you can't do anything about it at that stage? Their only answer is to cut and radiate. I'm seeing a naturopath that is helping me with a lifestyle change (diet, supplements, exercise, stress management, etc.). She ran further tests and have found my hormone levels are extremely low, my thyroid levels are low, vitamin D is low. I'm doing my best to correct all of it and will go back for another thermogram after 3 months. Depending on the outcome of that test, i'll to decide what to do next.

xr

 

[rockcreek]

Sorry to hear that. But it sounds like you are doing the right things. Thats the route I would go. Hormones can really mess you up. I would like to know what diet and supplements you get. Most people go for the biopsy, and the other harsh treatments that don't seem to work. Herbal Healer has some interesting testimonials about the products. Very uplifting and helpful. Prayers for you.

 

[xtreme_right]

I'm avoiding all sugar, which includes most breads. It's not atkins at all though. I still get carbs, just whole grain. I'm eating alot of vegetables and some fruit, organic when possible. Only organic meats, eggs and milk (don't need the hormones). No alcohol. Taking Vit D3 and supposed to be getting natural sunlight every day. Taking a multivitamin and mineral that has selenium (can't remember the other things in it off hand that I need). Taking krill oil (similar to fish oil but the omega 3 and omega 6 is better balanced). Taking some (doctor prescribed) homeopathic remedies and hormone cream.

Supposed to be exercizing, but haven't done so well with that, just climbing stairs througout the day while at work (25-30 flights). I'm keeping a food diary and it's helped me see where I need to improve. I also write down things like if I took my vitamins, how many glasses of water I drank, what exercise I did, how many hours of sleep I got (need 8.5 hours of quality sleep each night), etc.

It's been hard to turn on a dime and make such drastic changes. I've never dieted in my life. I'm not doing it just to lose some weight and look better. I have more incentive to stick to it though since my health depends on it.

Still struggling with remembering to do everything, trying to educate myself more and learn more recipes that fit my diet. I kinda wish I had a buddy going thru the same thing to keep each other on track. The only person in the meat world that knows is my husband. We decided not to tell anyone at this point. My excuse for the drastic change in diet is that i'm worried about becoming a diabetic like my Mother and Sister.

xr

 

[rockcreek]

If you are worried about your diet and diabetes maybe your Dr. could recommend a nutritionist.A friend started going to one, she has alot of health problems. She is losing weight, feels better and looks better. If you can't go that route do a search. Sparkpeople has a site thats free and helps you find a diet for you. Don't you give up there are answers out there.

 

[xtreme_right]

Thanks for the Sparkpeple website. It looks great. I know what I should be eating, but it's sometimes hard to stick to. That website looks like it will help me keep up with what i'm eating and my exercising. I don't THINK I need a nutritionist, i'm not really sure what they would offer that I can't dig up for myself. My naturopath pointed me in the right direction. I started out scared to eat anything. It's hard to find menus I like and can make time to prepare. Part of my previous crappy diet was because of time. I know I have to make time now.

I'm glad I got the thermogram since they can detect problems up to 10 years before a mammogram. If I had just been getting mammograms, I wouldn't have found out about it until it was much bigger and then wouldn't have nearly as much time to correct my diet and lifestyle to hopefully fix it. I've been optimistic and plan to stay that way. Thanks again.

xr

 

[rockcreek]

Sounds like you'll do fine. You have a good attitude about it, that will go along way.

 

[Hopeful]

I am going the thermogram route - really started because I have a friend who now does it. I had my baseline and then a follow-up 1 year later and now am due again. She takes the pictures and then sends them in to be read by regular doctors. They do seem to show definite hot spots in your body. The only thing is that they are not covered by insurance yet.