2,79,100, the probable number of new breast cancer cases worldwide by the end of 2020, tells us one thing, the fight against breast cancer is just beginning. However, the path ahead is neither bleak nor hopeless, with modern breast cancer treatments and the aid of expert breast cancer specialists, more than 84% of people can beat breast cancer.
The problem, however, is in the quality of life after cancer. You see, even the best cancer doctor cannot shield you from some of the side effects of breast cancer treatment. Nevertheless, the trick is to discuss your difficulties with your breast cancer specialist, and they can show you the way to a better life after cancer. Yes, all the side effects won't vanish completely; but, an experienced breast cancer specialist can give you the tips and tricks to sail through the storm.
Side effects of breast cancer treatment
"Chemobrain" is not the only hurdle after breast cancer treatment for patients. The several other side effects that a breast cancer specialist can guide you through are:
Fatigue & weakness
Loss of appetite
Nausea & vomiting
Mouth sores
Early menopause
Bleeding
Diarrhoea
Higher infection rate
Hair Loss
Some late side effects are:
Anxiety
Depression
Loss of bone density
Trouble sleeping
Infertility
Joint & muscle pain
Additionally, there are some rare late side effects like neuropathy, decreased cognitive function, pain, and lymphedema. Tips to cope with the side effects of breast cancer treatment
Get yourself on energy saving mode: Breast cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery are draining because although they kill diseased cells, they also kill some healthy cells pushing your body into overdrive for producing new healthy cells. Loss of appetite & lack of sleep due to the treatments also take a toll on the body. Therefore, you should take abundant naps throughout the day, pace yourself while working, and eat healthy whenever possible.
Bringing fibre back into your diet: Breast cancer treatments can leave you constipated, making you feel bloated, crampy, and miserable in its wake. Therefore, the smart thing is to include fruits, fibrous vegetables, and whole grains in your diet as much as is possible to decrease the chances of prolonged constipation.
Exercise: For more energy, better sleep, improved appetite, and constipation relief, you can choose to exercise regularly. Yes, with the fatigue pulling you down, it might seem impossible, that is why you can discuss with your breast cancer specialist for the best way to approach exercising after breast cancer treatment.
Eat in small portions & drink more fluids: Since breast cancer treatments cause loss of appetite and sores in the mouth, you should consult with your breast cancer specialist on how to get optimum nutrients through small portioned meals throughout the day. Also, to relieve yourself from either constipation or diarrhea, you should drink enough fluids.
Treat your hair and teeth gently: Breast cancer treatments cause brittle hair, hair loss, loss of bone density, and brittle nails, so, as any breast cancer specialist will advise, patients need to treat their hair and nails gently yet regularly.
Try heat, ice or acupuncture: Some of the worse side effects of breast cancer treatments are pain, nausea & vomiting. You can either use heat or ice to alleviate the pain or use acupuncture to address the pain along with vomiting & nausea. Acupuncture can also help with hot flashes due to menopause, fatigue, and dry mouth.
Keep washing your hands: Since the immune system is compromised as a side effect of some breast cancer treatments, infections can find you easily. Therefore, the best thing to do is to keep washing your hands thoroughly to avoid any such mishap.
Keep a notebook: Journaling your journey can help you cope better with your feelings after breast cancer treatment.
Seek support: The side effects you are facing need specific support from the right source. For emotional distress and depression, you might consider a psychologist with prior experience in supporting breast cancer survivors; for physical ailments, your breast cancer specialist might be enough, or they can suggest the best doctor for the specific problems.
To wrap it up
The journey after the completion of breast cancer treatment is as hard as a breast cancer treatment journey. So, it is in your best interest to find the best cancer doctor to support you through it all. If you are looking for breast cancer treatment in Noida or Breast cancer treatment in Delhi, you can always consult the best breast cancer doctor in Delhi, Dr. Manish Singhal, one of the most revered oncologists in Delhi NCR.
Also Read: Breast Cancer Awareness-The truth about male breast cancer