Cancer is a serious battle that impacts both the mind and body. Life after surgery can be overwhelming and stressful. Navigating life after cancer surgery can be a profound journey filled with challenges and triumphs. While the surgery itself marks a significant milestone in the battle against cancer, the path to recovery and improved quality of life extends far beyond the operating room. This period often involves not only physical healing but also emotional and mental adjustments.
To understand how to make improvements in life after cancer surgery, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Supriya Bambarkar, Oncosurgeon, AIMS Hospital, Dombivili, Kalyan.
Dr Bambarkar said, “Cancer is a serious condition that can negatively impact an individual’s daily routine. Cancer surgery is itself a complex procedure that can be mentally and physically exhausting. The entire process of emotionally preparing yourself for the procedures, undergoing the surgery, and then recovering can be overwhelming. One might experience a range of emotions such as anxiety, worry, stress, anger, sadness, fear, agitation, frustration, and irritation. This can significantly increase their mental burden.”
Adding further, she said, “Life after cancer surgery can be filled with various challenges and hurdles. It is because your body undergoes tremendous changes during cancer surgery. This is why taking necessary precautions and following safety measures is essential for speedy recovery.”
Here are some tips shared by Dr Bambarkar to improve life after cancer surgery.
Take Plenty of Rest
It is common to face sleep problems like difficulty in sleeping, waking up frequently, feeling tired, constantly worrying about sleep, and waking up too early in cancer patients after the surgical procedure. When asked, Dr Bambarkar said, “This can be due to multiple reasons such as your body undergoing various physical changes, and after-effects of the treatment. It can lead to mental health issues like anxiety, stress, and depression.” She advised, “Getting sound sleep for almost 8 to 9 hours is essential for recovery and strengthening your body. This can significantly improve your mood and cheer you up after physically tiring days.”
Also read: Exercises That Can Improve Life During Cancer Treatment
Eat a Well-balanced Meal
“Be cautious and make wise food choices, especially after cancer surgery. Your daily diet should include plenty of vegetables, fruits, pulses, lentils, and whole grains. Choose foods that provide essential nutrients like carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins,” she recommended. This will help ensure that your body gets an adequate amount of nutrients to effectively manage life after cancer surgery. In case a liquid diet or tube feeds are advised post-surgery, Dr Bambarkar emphasised on trying to keep good hydration and adequate calorie intake. Take supplements like protein powders and vitamins as advised by the doctor.
Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activities after cancer surgery can be effective and lead to positive outcomes. Dr Bambarkar recommended to keep moving for more than 45 minutes a day and advised to avoid strenuous exercises until the stitches are removed. A gradual increase in physical activities can be done after the same. “You can indulge in various physical activities or exercises like yoga, meditation, jogging, swimming, cardio, hitting the gym, long walks, and deep breathing techniques. This is advisable, especially for people who are in habit with regular exercises before surgery. This can be helpful in various ways such as improving sleep and reducing stress and anxiety,” she said.
Also read: Hina Khan Kickboxes Less Than A Week After Breast Cancer Surgery; Is It Ideal?
Share Your Feelings
Do not try to suppress your feelings and emotions. This will only increase your mental load and lead to serious problems like overthinking, stress, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Dr Bambarkar suggested, “Talking with your loved ones, family members, friends, and partners can effectively provide emotional support to speed up your recovery. It will help you realise that you are not alone in this challenging journey.”
Conclusion
By prioritising physical rehabilitation, maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and seeking emotional support, survivors can significantly improve their quality of life. Embracing these positive changes not only aids in physical healing but also fosters mental and emotional resilience. Remember, each step taken towards better health and well-being is a testament to strength and hope. With the right strategies and a supportive community, life after cancer surgery can be a journey of renewed purpose and joy.