How to spring back to life post breast cancer treatment?
Let’s examine the ways that the body’s structure changes after the treatment for breast cancer and how survivors of breast cancer are able to come back and get the most out of their lives.
The body's structure is changed
After surgery, there are bruises and scars on the chest and breast area. If a mastectomy procedure is carried out in the course of procedure, it could make the patient feel less complete. Alongside these, are hair loss and eventually regeneration.
In the beginning, it could be difficult for those who have survived to examine their body and accept the changes that it has gone through. But, research has shown that those who can handle the changes earlier develop confidence quicker.
Also Read: Why Awareness Of Breast Cancer Is Vital?
Self-viewing after treatment
Women who have had surgery may struggle to deal with the changes that have occurred to their body after surgery. In these cases it’s a good idea to seek out counseling for adjustment disorders.
Enhancing the look
One of the primary concerns for many women who have breast cancer is restoring their appearance after surgery. Naturally, following a mastectomy, women often be afflicted with low levels of confidence. However, the good news is that through breast reconstruction, women can gain confidence and lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Keep in mind that breast reconstruction only recreates the shape of the breast but it is not able to replace the breast, nipple or the feelings associated with it.
Also Read: Breast Cancer Symptoms & Causes
Menopausal symptoms
After receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer women who are premenopausal or perimenopausal are likely to begin experiencing signs of menopausal. It is because treatments such as hormone therapy and chemotherapy can alter hormonal production in females, either temporarily or for a long time. Some of the signs include:
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- The loss of desire
- Changes in mood
- Vaginal dryness that is accompanied by discomfort
- Changes in the experience of an orgasmic
Counselors and healthcare experts can assist you with managing these signs
Gain in weight
Sometimes, certain medications used in treatment can cause people gain weight. The reasons behind weight gain include:
- If you’re stressed or your routine is changing it is possible to eat more
- Your body is not active and that can contribute to weight gain.
- Weight Gain is linked with an increased chance of recurrences of cancer. Therefore, returning to a regular exercise and fitness after treatment can not only help in building confidence and self-esteem but also to keep cancer from spreading.
- A walk every day that lasts at least 45 minutes including arm exercises using an the operated arm as well as yoga is highly recommended.
Hair loss
A very commonly reported side effect of chemotherapy is loss of hair. You may also consult your medical oncologist regarding measures that you can take to prevent hair loss such as cooling caps that are used during chemotherapy. Hair accessories made of natural hair and even wigs could be utilized to help ease the transition.
But, be at ease knowing that this is only temporary. Hair growth will return shortly after 3-6 months the completion of chemotherapy.
Regaining your feet
For women who work who are independent and productive at work could be the best approach to feeling normal. In the case of treatment you’re receiving, you’ll be able to ask your Breast Cancer doctor in Kolkata about the ideal time to return to working. Although some courageous women are able to work during Breast Cancer treatment, others may need several weeks to heal.
Social Support
The most difficult aspect of our lives is to overcome the stigma that comes with cancer, and to be accepted by the rest of society. This includes family members, friends or even colleagues. Becoming secretive and avoiding discussing your struggles could affect your self-confidence and your mood in the end. It has been found by researchers that those who have been more transparent about their fight with cancer and are willing to share their stories cope more quickly and with greater success.
So, be sure to share your experience with your loved ones, close friends or even distant ones by counseling, talking or even by microblogging through social media. You can join a survivors groups which can make you feel more accepted and accepted.
We’ve now seen several of the commonly reported adverse effects of the treatment for breast cancer and how to manage these. Remember, acceptance is the key to peace. It’s not every person who can survive the assault with breast cancer. If you’re a survivor, it simply means you’re strong and have the capacity within your to beat the breast cancer and its side effects challenge.
About Docor
Dr. Azhar Alam
MBBS (Honours), MRCS A (UK),
DNB General Surgery
FIAGES (Gastro Intestinal Surgery)
FMAS (Minimal Access Surgery),
MNAMS (New Delhi)
Consultant Gastrointestinal, Advanced Laparoscopic and Laser Surgeon
Assistant Professor of Surgery, KPC Medical College and Hospital
