Hypnotherapy

[Guest]

My brother has had non hodgkins lymphoma for 7 years now and has had chemo radiation, stem cell replacement and undergone various clinical trials.

This past year the doctors could not find any other treatments for him. He has gone down hill and we did not know if he would be with us through the Holidays. He has fought this cancer long and hard and has bascially given up any hope. The most difficult part for him is what he calls an internal itching. He scratches so hard that there is barely any relief and can not
rest or sleep. He scratches constantly and breaks through his skin.

Is there any thing that you might be aware of to help with this sympton and at least make him more comfortable

Sincerely,
Celeste Kronen

[Guest]

Dear Celeste,
The first benefit your brother would receive from hypnotherapy is the relief of stress -- which in and of itself would help to reduce the "internal itching." Also, a hypnotherapist could work with him in helping him to "turn the feeling" of the itching down...like turning the volume down on the stereo. There are many kinds of symptom relief processes that could be very helpful to your brother. Also, methods of distraction can be most helpful for him. A skilled hypnotherapist might also work with some imagery techniques -- perhaps inviting your brother to experience a "healing pool of water." If there is no availability of working with a hypnotherapist, perhaps he might be interested in Dr. Martin Rossman's book or tape series, "Healing Yourself -- A step by step program for better health through imagery." This is something he could do alone, or with someone else, like yourself, who has his best interests at heart. My very best wishes to your brother, you, and your family.
[quote] My brother has had non hodgkins lymphoma for 7 years now and has had chemo,radiation, stem cell replacement and undergone various clinical trials.

This past year the doctors could not find any other treatments for him... [/quote]