Cancer1 is a life-altering event that affects millions of people around the world. It can be frightening and overwhelming, but with the right information, support, and care, it’s possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life after being diagnosed with cancer. Oncologists are highly trained medical professionals who specialize in treating cancer.
They understand the physical aspects of this disease and its emotional toll on patients and their families. That’s why they often have important advice for those affected by cancer – from treatments to lifestyle changes – that can help improve outcomes and quality of life during treatment and beyond. We’ll explore eight of these pieces of advice.
1. Follow Your Treatment Plan
It’s of utmost importance that you adhere to your treatment plan and take all medications as prescribed. Keep track of appointment dates and times, take notes during appointments, and ask questions if needed. If you have fallopian cancer, you should be aware of the side effects commonly associated with chemotherapy and radiation and speak to your doctor about any concerns. Additionally, if an oncologist has recommended a clinical trial, ask about participation’s potential benefits and risks.
2. Eat Nutritious Foods
A healthy, nutritious diet 2can help your body stay strong during cancer treatment. Ask your oncologist for individualized advice based on your diagnosis, as some foods may be more beneficial than others. Generally speaking, you should strive to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like fish and poultry, whole grains like brown rice and quinoa, legumes like beans and lentils, and healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds. Also, consider adding supplements such as Vitamin D or probiotics if necessary. Some people have also found that taking omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric can help decrease inflammation.
3. Stay Physically Active
Physical activity is important for everyone, especially those battling cancer. Exercise can help improve your physical strength, reduce stress and anxiety levels, manage side effects like fatigue and depression, and even boost your immune system3. Talk to your oncologist about an appropriate level of exercise based on the type of cancer you have and the stage of treatment you’re in. Generally speaking, aim for 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (like walking or swimming) three times a week, plus strength training twice a week if possible.
4. Maintain Strong Social Connections
It’s easy to become isolated when dealing with cancer, but strong social connections can be beneficial for your mental and physical health. It’s important to reach out to friends, family members, and other supportive people in your life who can provide emotional support during treatment. Additionally, you may want to consider joining a cancer support group where you can connect with others who are going through a similar experience. And while it’s important to take breaks from discussing cancer, it can be therapeutic to share your story and listen to others.
5. Take Breaks From Technology
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all of the information available online regarding cancer. Too much research can lead you down a rabbit hole, which could potentially cause more anxiety. Sometimes it’s best to step away from technology and focus on other activities that bring you joy like reading, gardening, or painting. Some say that radiation from our phones and other devices can also be harmful, so try to keep at least a few feet away from devices when possible. If you do need to use technology, make sure to set boundaries and take breaks when needed.
6. Find Ways To Reduce Stress
Stress can be a major issue for those dealing with cancer, so it’s important to find ways to reduce it. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. You may also want to consider trying out some form of creative expression like art, music, writing, or cooking. Additionally, there is evidence that spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels – something as simple as going for a walk outside has been known to have positive benefits on the mind and body. And if all else fails, remember to take a break and relax – it’s okay to permit yourself to do nothing every once in a while!
7. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep plays an essential role in physical health and mental well-being. Unfortunately, cancer treatments can often interfere with sleep. Talk to your oncologist or primary care doctor about possible ways to improve your quality of sleep, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol late in the day and keeping a consistent bedtime schedule. Additionally, taking steps to reduce stress can help you relax and get better rest. For example, avoiding screens an hour before bedtime, journaling to clear your mind, or taking a warm bath can all help you ease into sleep.
8. Stay Positive
It’s easy to become overwhelmed when dealing with cancer, but staying positive can be beneficial for both mental and physical health. Try practicing gratitude by reminding yourself of the good things in life each day – this can make it easier to stay optimistic during challenging times. Also, find activities that bring you joy like spending time with friends and family or engaging in hobbies that make you happy. This may seem easier said than done, but it is possible to stay positive and find joy during the cancer journey.
And, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do this alone. It can be difficult to ask for help, but many people are willing and able to support you throughout your cancer treatment. Reach out to family and friends when you need emotional or practical assistance, such as groceries or transportation to appointments.
Dealing with cancer 4is difficult and can take a toll on your physical and mental health. However, there are ways to cope that can help make this journey easier. By making time for self-care activities such as relaxation techniques, staying connected to supportive people in your life, taking breaks from technology, reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and staying positive – you can find strength and peace during this difficult period. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and that there are resources available to support you throughout your journey.
- Bailar, John C., and Heather L. Gornik. “Cancer undefeated.” New England Journal of Medicine 336.22 (1997): 1569-1574. ↩︎
- Kim, Duk Hwan. “Nutritional issues in patients with cancer.” Intestinal research 17.4 (2019): 455-462. ↩︎
- Block, Keith I., et al. “The immune system in cancer.” Integrative cancer therapies 1.3 (2002): 294-316. ↩︎
- Hagedoorn, Mariët, et al. “Couples dealing with cancer: role and gender differences regarding psychological distress and quality of life.” Psycho‐Oncology: Journal of the Psychological, Social and Behavioral Dimensions of Cancer 9.3 (2000): 232-242. ↩︎
Last Updated on by Sathi
