Having cancer in itself is one of the most life altering things a person can face in their life. Once treatment begins, things spiral out of control even more. This is the time when getting some semblance of balance and management in lifestyle is particularly needed.

If you or your loved one is undergoing, about to experience or have already come out of chemotherapy, then the following lifestyle management tips are going to take you far in getting control of your life back.

Just remember no matter how difficult the moment may be, it too shall pass. Keep strong, continue to hold on to positivity and take one step at a time. Here is how to manage your day to day life while dealing with chemotherapy treatment.

Deal with the Mindset First

The very first thing that you need to do is come to term with the fact that chemo is going to happen. Understand the logic behind it. All those medicines that are injected or given for oral intake are meant to get rid of the cancer cells from your body. It is going to heal you, even if it makes you feel bad for a while. Once you realize that the treatment is the friend and not the enemy, you will be able to bear it with a peaceful mind.

Yes normal routine life will be difficult, but if you are a fighter and cancer can only be fought with your confidence, positive approach and chemo. Your aim should be to get better as soon as possible in order to get the chemo done and over with. You will have good days and bad days, but you can deal with them and come out the victor. Continue to focus on the end when your cancer will be gone and your body will be healed.

Eating Pattern and Healthy Foods

Foods are the things that chemo patients lose interest in immediately for many people, food loses the taste it once had and becomes metallic in taste. What’s more, nausea, a side effect of chemo can push many people away from wanting to eat anything and then throwing up. But a healthy diet is going to help you recuperate and get your strength back.

Some of the foods that are excellent to regain your strength are fresh fruits and vegetables. They are rich in minerals and vitamins and give an instant burst of energy. Nuts, whole wheat food items, whole fat milk and yogurt as well as lean meats some of the most excellent food items that you can consume. The idea is to get energy levels up but that does not mean you should indulge in sugary or processed food items. However, realize that some people may be sensitive to certain foods, that is the reason to obtain a DNA Uprint.

You would need to make sure that you talk to your doctor about your diet. Keep in mind that every individual case is different which is why it is essential to ask your doctor what are the best foods for you.

Physical Activity for Chemo Patients

Many patients who undergo the extensive chemotherapy feel that they are too weak to continue being active or indulging in any kind of physical activity. And this is one of the worst things they can possibly do. Physical activity not only helps your body with the healing process and regaining strength back, it also helps with other things. These include:

• Healthy weight
• Gets rid of fatigue and anxiety
• Improves heart and bone health
• Increases optimism and self esteem

Keep in mind though that your body weakens with chemo, which means that shouldn’t participate in any vigorous exercise or any physical activity that makes you breathless or deprives you of oxygen. So keep your options gentle and relaxing like walking, slow dancing, swimming, cycling etc.

If you feel that you are unable to do all of this on your own, getting in touch with a certified health professional or trainer may help. They will not only help you out with simple exercises but also coach you in making your will power strong so that chemo sessions become relatively easier for you.

The Side Effects of Chemo

Like any other medicine, chemo too has quite a few side effects. For some people, depending on the severity of cancer and their genetic makeup, the side effects are more adverse. This could mean everything from nausea to hair fall. Other people experience fewer side effects of chemo and are able to maintain a normal life routine.

The side effects of chemo will not only weaken you physically but emotionally as well. If you feel that you are going through a tough time coping with the reaction of chemotherapy, get professional help. Feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are very common. It is at this time that you need the support and love of your near and dear ones. Don’t be shy in reaching out to them and seeking their presence.

Some other ways you can manage this emotional trauma of going through chemo is by getting a pet animal like a dog, you can also keep a journal or join a cancer support group. Talking to a therapist and other cancer patient will not only give you hope but courage to plunder on. Keep reminding yourself that the days of chemo are limited and they will help you in getting better.

Some Things to Pay Attention To

There are certain aspects of your health and lifestyle you will need to pay attention to.

• Keep a check on your bone condition. Cancer patients going through chemo are exposed to bone deterioration. Bone thinning may occur and you will have to pay attention to your diet and physical activity routine to keep your bones healthy. Make sure you talk to your doctor about it so that they can give you calcium and vitamin D supplements.
• Heart Health: Studies show that your heart may become weak because of chemo or you may later develop heart conditions once the procedure is complete. Keep a tab on your smoking and drinking habits and drop them completely. Also remain in touch with your doctor and get routine tests done.
• Stress management: Some people opt for alternative therapies to cope with the stress of chemo. If you feel that you are unable to handle the depression, get in touch with your doctor. They will either refer you to a psychiatrist or suggest a support group who can help you out.

Chemotherapy is a difficult time but with the right lifestyle management tricks, you can come out without being broken. Be strong, you can fight it!

References

• https://www.cancer.org/cancer/chronic-lymphocytic-leukemia/after-treatment/lifestyle-changes.html
• http://www.cancer.net/survivorship/healthy-living/about-healthy-living-and-cancer
• http://chemocare.com/chemotherapy/health-wellness/default.aspx
• https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/cancer-control/en/booklets-flyers/life-style-changes-that-make-a-difference.pdf