Whether you or a loved one has suffered from breast cancer, it can be understood that the experience was not an easy one to go through. Hearing the diagnosis of breast cancer brings many emotions along with it; fear, anger, denial, and sadness are some common emotions. But, each patient’s experience is different.
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While the symptoms and stages will be similar, the effects on one’s emotional state will vary. As we know, there is a chance to survive breast cancer. Many see this as a blessing, but others see the survivorship of breast cancer to be just as scary and chaotic as dealing with the cancer itself. Survivorship is the term used to describe a patient’s state of being after breast cancer treatment is complete, per breast360.org.
Following are 5 tips to help survivors adjust to their new normal.
Healthy Lifestyle.
In order to have a successful survivorship, living a healthy lifestyle is pertinent. These healthy habits include a nutritious diet, regular exercise and no smoking. Limited alcohol intake will contribute significantly to the outcomes of survivorship. If you feel that you are going to struggle making healthy lifestyle decisions on your own, surround yourself with supportive people you trust to help you along the way.
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Follow-up Visits.
Patients should have visits with their breast cancer specialists every 3-6 months for the first few years after their treatments. These visits are important because this is when you will be given a physical exam and talk to your health care provider about how things are going post-treatment. It is important to let your physician know of any changes you have noticed. Patients also have to be sure to do their yearly mammogram.
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Vigilance.
As breast cancer survivors, it is important to understand that the cancer can reoccur. In order to be prepared for this, be sure to go to your appointments when they are due and follow any recommendations your physician or breast cancer specialist may give you.
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Know Your Health History.
Knowing your health history is important. This includes the type of breast cancer you had, as well as the treatments you have received. It is important to be aware of this information because of the side effects. Every day you will be faced with decisions you have to make regarding how they will interfere with your health conditions. For example, cancer patients who underwent radiation must protect their skin from the sun. They need to take extra steps to cover their skin or wear sunscreen with the appropriate amount of SPF.
Be Self Aware.
It is said that patients who survived breast cancer have a stronger sense of wisdom. The journey that one goes through from battling cancer is a rigorous one. A journey full of questions, uncertainty, and in some cases relying on faith. Some patients believe that battling breast cancer changes them, and they embrace the person they have become.
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The survivorship of breast cancer is dependent on the diligence one has to their post-treatment care. The treatments may be over, but your war on cancer has only just begun. Make sure you make healthy lifestyle decisions and follow up with your appointments. Following these simple steps will ease the pressure that patients feel.
