What is cancer survival?
Cancer survivorship refers to the complete duration of cancer survivors from the initial diagnosis of cancer to those living cancer free. The term cancer survivorship includes prevention and detection of cancer (recurring and new), symptom management, and long-term care.
Common complications after cancer treatment
Cancer and cancer treatments can have many adverse effects on every system in your body, including the lymphatic system.
Physical effects that may last or appear later
People who have undergone cancer treatment, especially radiation and removal of lymph nodes, are at increased risk of developing lymphedema.
Lymphedema is a disease of the lymphatic system, which helps your immune system transport fluids and infection-fighting cells throughout your body. It is a progressive, long-term condition that can develop days, months, or even years after the initial injury to your lymphatic system. Chronic swelling from lymphedema can also limit a person’s mobility and daily activities.
Emotional and mental health concerns
Lymphedema can affect a person’s ability to participate in daily activities due to pain and discomfort. Living with lymphedema can feel isolating and exhausting, leading to mixed feelings, anxiety and depression. If you have mental health problems, your doctor may refer you to a mental health specialist.
Monitoring your health after cancer
Recognize symptoms that require medical attention
Lymphedema causes a weak immune response in the affected organs. Because of this, people with lymphedema are at risk for a skin infection known as cellulitis, which occurs when bacteria enter the skin. Cellulitis can worsen lymphedema and lead to potentially life-threatening medical complications.
In lymphedema, symptoms of cellulitis include sudden swelling, flu-like symptoms, and a red rash or rash called erythema. It is important to recognize these symptoms in time to avoid further problems. If you have a fever or possible symptoms of cellulitis, see your doctor right away. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat cellulitis.
Retention of symptoms over time
A simple way to manage and monitor changes in lymphedema symptoms is by keeping a daily symptom tracker or journal. Perform a regular visual inspection of areas affected by lymphedema and document these three simple questions:
- Is there swelling or swelling?
- Do I have discomfort or pain?
- Is there a change in the texture of my skin?
It’s also important to note any daily activities that may be triggering your symptoms.
The health of the whole person in surviving cancer
Daily habits that support long-term health
- If you wear compression garments To manage your lymphedema, change every 6 months for day clothes and every 12 months for night clothes.
- Medical proceduresincluding blood pressure measurements, injections, and blood draws or IVs should be avoided in affected parts with lymphedema.
- Hold up strict skin hygiene by daily cleansing with mild products. Moisturize regularly with a low pH lotion to prevent dryness, cracking, and cracking of the skin.
- Monitor for signs of infection (redness, heat, pain, swelling, flu symptoms) and if you suspect any new symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
- Exercise with caution if there is a risk of exposure to the sun, which can cause damage or breakdown of the skin (sunburn).
- Wear sunscreen SPF 30 or higher when outdoors to prevent sunburn.
- If you regularly wear compression garments, they should also be worn during air travel. During flight, try to move while flying (ankle pumps, knee flexion and extension, arm pumps, arm flexion and extension), drink a lot of water and if possible, raise the limbs.
- Avoid using saunas.
Self-care strategies for cancer survivors
Practice may be useful before, during, and after cancer treatment. Regular exercise can offer a variety of benefits, including boosting your immune system, helping you maintain a healthy weight, and reducing the side effects of treatments like lymphedema.
American Cancer Society (ACS) guidelines recommend that cancer survivors:
- Participate in regular physical activity.
- Start slowly and increase your physical activity over time.
- Build up to at least 150-300 minutes of moderate activity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous intensity (or a combination). Getting more active is even better.
- Include muscle-strengthening exercises at least 2 days per week.
Proper food important during and after cancer treatment. It can help survivors maintain their energy levels, help them heal and stay strong. Eating well includes:
- Eating a variety of plant-based foods: vegetables, fruits, grains, and beans
- Choose nutrient-dense foods. Avoid foods high in sugar, fat or calories.
- Limit red and processed meat, sugar-sweetened beverages, and highly processed foods.
- Choose healthy protein sources such as fish, poultry, beans and lentils.
Dietary needs may be specific to each individual and may be related to the specific effects of their cancer or treatment. For example, foods high in sodium or salt can increase swelling in those living with lymphedema. Because obesity can worsen cancerous lymphedema, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight. Your doctor can provide guidance on an individualized plan that addresses your exercise and nutrition needs.
Emotional, social and community support
Cancer can affect the general well-being of you and those around you. It can feel isolating and lead to new worries about work, money and getting back into your normal activities. Although it can be difficult to cope and talk about your feelings, there are community resources that can help, including counseling, spiritual support, and group support among cancer survivors.
Lymphedema can be different for each person. Living with lymphedema can feel exhausting, leading to mixed feelings, anxiety, and depression. If you have mental health problems, your doctor may refer you to a mental health specialist. Additionally, there are lymphedema organizations that can provide information and help connect you to necessary resources, such as Lymphatic Education and Research Network (LE&RN) and National Lymphedema Network (NLN).
