Helping Yourself

What Can I Do To Help Myself?

In general use common sense and lead a healthy lifestyle:

• Avoid alcohol and tobacco
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat healthy: protein (meat, dairy products, nuts) helps healing, try to avoid empty calories such as sweets and “junk food”
• You may be more comfortable eating several smaller meals rather than large meals
• Stay physically active (while following any medical restrictions). Do some light exercise every day but do not over-exert yourself.
• Take short rest periods as needed, but prolonged daytime naps may prevent you from sleeping well at night. Remember, “Power Naps”, not “Couch Potato”!
• Stay mentally active – interaction with family and friends, BINGO, helping the kids with homework, or computer games can all help stimulate thinking and memory

When Can I Drive?

For patients who have never had a seizure, it is most often the surgeon who will give you permission to drive after a period of recover.

For patients who have had a seizure, the situation is more complex and needs to be discussed on an individual basis.

When Can I Return to Work?

It is recommended that patients do not work during radiation therapy and for a few weeks beyond.

At that time, work issues are discussed on an individual basis. We will make every effort to do what is best for each patient.

How Do I Get Paperwork Filled Out for Disability, Family Leave, or Other Issues?

All paperwork must be sent out by Health Information Management (also known as medical records) on the first floor of the hospital, behind the cafeteria. Their phone number is 845-5990. You can mail or hand carry forms to them. Please understand we are not able to fill out forms in the clinic.

It is very helpful if you know the last date worked and the first date your symptoms appeared. To save time, fill out the patient section completely and sign for permission to release information. We are not able to send out any forms without a signed release.

Who Should I Call for Clinic Appointments or to Reschedule an Appointment?

Appointments are scheduled by the clinic secretaries.

For Dr. Fenstermaker, Dr. Mechtler, Dr. Plunkett, Pauline Cole, NP or Kathy Mogensen, NP, call:

845-1642.

For appointments in Radiation Medicine call:

845-1973.

Who Should I Call for Prescription Refills or Questions About Medications?

The most efficient way to discuss medications is during an appointment. Please request refills at that time. If you will run out of refills before your appointment, call the Neuro-oncology office at 845-3154. Please leave your whole name with spelling, date of birth, name and dose of medication needed, and the pharmacy phone number.

Please monitor your medication and request refills before you run out of pills. If you call outside of usual business hours, your call will be addressed the next business day.

Can I Travel?

Once you have recovered from surgery and/or radiation, you may travel if you feel well enough.

There is no problem with flying, the airplane cabin is pressurized.

When flying or driving, you should drink plenty of fluids, and get up and stretch your legs at least every two hours to decrease the risk of blood clots. If flying, have your medication with you in a carry- on bag.

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