The Healing Path: Strategies for Breast Cancer Recovery

Posted On: October 27, 2023

Breast cancer is a scary reality for many young women. But the inspiring stories of Indian celebrities like Sonali Bendre and Tahira Kashyap, who were diagnosed with breast cancer and successfully beat it, are a testament to the fact that early detection and proper treatment can save lives. These women are true warriors who have shown us that with courage, determination, and the right support, we can overcome any obstacle.

It is true, surviving breast cancer is not only a physical challenge, but also an emotional and psychological one. After breast cancer surgery, patients may have to carry a drainage device and bandages, undergo regular physical examinations and medical tests, which can be quite exhausting. Along with this, they may also face fatigue, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, and fear of recurrence.

It is important to remember that these challenges are normal and can be overcome with time and support from loved ones. With patience, perseverance, and a positive attitude, you can emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. In this blog, let us look into the types of strategies that can help one manage the stress and improve the quality of life after breast cancer treatment.

1. Talk to Breast Cancer Survivors

It is quite helpful and motivating to learn from the experiences of others. Talking to breast cancer survivors can help you to cope with the emotional and physical challenges of breast cancer. They can guide you to find the best cancer treatment hospitals in India and give advice on how to manage the side effects of treatment such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, loss of appetite, skin and nail change, etc. Their survival stories are a testament to their strength and resilience, and can help you feel less lonely in your journey to recovery.

2. Let Friends and Family Help You

It is true that emotional support from family and friends can help improve physical and emotional well-being after breast cancer surgery. It is important to communicate clearly about your pain and suffering and let your loved ones give you strength in your times of despair. After surgery, you may not be able to perform daily routine tasks by yourself and may require assistance. Do not hesitate to take support from your near and dear ones.

3. Take Care of Your Mental Health

Breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy, which is the removal of the breast, and those who have experienced complete hair loss may feel less feminine and suffer from low self-esteem. At such times, it is necessary to seek the help of a mental health professional to effectively deal with body image issues. The counsellor can also guide on how to take care of oneself and help one to deal with the fear of recurrence and other psychological issues.

Along with the expert treatment, Shalby Hospitals, one of the best breast cancer hospitals in Ahmedabad provides counselling services to patients suffering from emotional distress.

4. Take Proper Rest & Nutrition

After breast cancer surgery, your diet should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and low fat dairy products. Avoid alcohol consumption, processed foods and limit caffeine intake. Along with proper nutrition, you should also keep yourself well hydrated and take proper rest to ensure faster recovery.

5. Do Appropriate Exercises

After breast cancer surgery, arm and shoulder pain, weakness and stiffness are quite common. You might feel you have lost all your energy and it will be difficult for you to move and do things. But do not worry, with few gentle stretching exercises like shoulder rolls or arm circles, elbow winging, etc. can help you regain your movement gradually. However, before beginning any exercise, you should consult your doctor and follow his advice.

Shalby Hospitals is the one-stop healthcare destination for breast cancer treatment. Along with the top breast cancer doctors in India, we have world-class infrastructure and provide multidisciplinary treatment to all types of breast cancer.