How to Prepare for Laser Light Therapy

Laser light therapy rests on the notion that high-intensity light can shrink or destroy tumors. Due to the precision of the lasers, it can be a particularly beneficial treatment for those with superficial skin cancers or tumors on the linings of organs. In clinical trials, it has shown promise in treating lung and esophageal cancers. While laser light therapy may be effective in treating cancers on its own, it is usually used in combination with another form of cancer treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Find out whether you're a good candidate for laser light therapy. This type of treatment is used mostly for patients with extremely early stages of cancer before more aggressive therapies are pursued.

• 2

  Check how often you'll be required to have laser light therapy. Some forms of laser therapy, such as photodynamic therapy, are used only twice, whereas other types of laser therapy require several rounds of treatment.

• 3

  Determine where you will go to receive your treatment. Patients who live in smaller towns may need to make a trip to the nearest large city to access facilities with laser equipment.

• 4

  Eat at least 3 well-balanced meals per day both before and after your treatment. Being properly nourished may increase the effectiveness of the treatment and may reduce your recovery time.

• 5

  Talk with your doctor about your long-term care plan. You'll need to know if laser light therapy is the only treatment you will be pursuing at the moment or whether you'll need an additional form of cancer treatment.