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After going through the difficult stages of diagnosis and treatment, you finally arrive at a long-awaited step: the end of treatment! But it’s not all over yet. There’s still the recovery phase. It’s important to know that this emotional stage also comes with its share of difficulties. You can prepare for these challenges by learning what to expect and seeking support if you feel the need.
A period of recovery is essential after cancer treatment. The body has been put to the test and needs time to heal. Additionally, you’ve also been through a lot of emotions during treatment. Take time to find your footing. It’s important to know that recovery can take up to a year.
Psychologically, you’ll probably experience a lot of emotions. You may be happy and relieved to have completed treatment, but you may also be very anxious, scared and lost about what comes next. In brief, post-treatment involves a transition and adaptation phase. Accept that you may not feel good emotionally. This is normal. Be patient: take the time to understand what you’ve been through and let the dust settle.
It is normal to feel disoriented after cancer treatment. Here are some examples of feelings that you may have:
You may be unsettled by the state of your body and general health. Spending time with family and friends is very beneficial to support you during this period of recovery. Psychological support is very important.
In the following sections, you will find information on various topics to consider during the post-treatment phase.
ReferencesPathways for Success for Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Guide for Educators, Counsellors and Families (Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario)
Cancer treatment can affect your physical, cognitive, emotional and psychological abilities. Be comfortable asking for support so you can gradually resume your activities. Many professionals can help you in this recovery: nutritionists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, recreational therapists, rehabilitation nurses, social workers, psychologists, spiritual care professionals, vocational rehabilitation counsellors, etc.
Be patient! Rehabilitation can take some time.
Here are links to rehabilitation exercises you can do at home to help your physical recovery.
Educational video series on the prevention of musculoskeletal complications following breast cancer treatment.
My Active Health program
Chemotherapy and hormone therapy can affect your cognitive abilities (thinking, reasoning, perception, judgment, learning, attention and memory). The type of treatment and the dose you have received can influence how much your concentration and intellectual abilities are affected. Also, remember each person reacts differently to treatment. Cognitive problems can also be caused by factors not directly related to the cancer itself, such as fatigue, sleep issues, stress, age and lack of minerals.
Here are some tips for cognitive recovery:
Symptoms can be very mild and often disappear on their own within days or months after treatment. If you or a member of your family observe differences in your cognitive abilities that persist over time, do not hesitate to tell your doctor. She or he will assess your cognitive functions, determine the cause, suggest solutions or refer you to a specialist who will help you regain your abilities.
Here are a few options that your doctor may suggest:
A healthy and balanced diet is recommended to help you recover from your treatments. Your body needs to regain its strength. Studies have shown that eating well helps reduce the risk of recurrence and protects against cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
To feel better and resume your daily activities, choose a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat. A healthy diet should include three balanced meals a day, containing at least one serving from three of the food groups: fruits and vegetables, grain products, meat and meat alternatives. This diet will help you meet your nutritional needs and recover better.
Here are a few nutritional tips for a speedy recovery:
Fruits and vegetables contain all the vitamins and antioxidants the body needs to function properly. So, it’s a good idea to eat plenty of them. That way, you won’t have to take supplements. Talk to your healthcare team if you wish to take supplements and vitamins. They might want you to do blood tests to find out which supplements would be good for you. If you want to try a non-traditional diet, you should also talk to your healthcare team to make sure it is safe.
Many women question soy consumption and the possibility that it may promote the growth of cancer cells. While it is true that soy contains phytoestrogens, plant-based molecules that resemble estrogen, these are 100 to 1,000 times less effective at binding to the estrogen receptors than natural hormones are.
Studies with conflicting results have been published on the protective or harmful effect of soybeans. Nutritionists believe that moderate consumption of soy and its derivatives is safe for women. However, phytoestrogen supplements are not recommended. Many studies are underway to ensure the safety of these supplements and whether they have a beneficial role.
https://meetinglibrary.asco.org/record/80307/edbook#fulltext
Chemotherapy can cause weight loss, while hormone therapy and decreased physical activity during treatment can lead to weight gain. In some cases, the opposite of both can be true. After your treatment, it is recommended you return to a healthy weight for faster recovery, better quality of life and lower risk of recurrence.
Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your healthcare team. They can refer you to specialists who will support you in getting back into shape. A nutritionist can suggest a balanced menu to help you return to your healthy weight.
After receiving breast cancer care, many people live with the fear that the cancer will recur. This is completely normal and understandable. And it will normally diminish over time.
This fear may be rekindled by certain events, like follow-up visits, the appearance of pain, the “anniversary” dates of diagnosis or surgery, or learning that someone close to you has cancer.
The following can help you cope with this anxiety:
If anxiety persists and affects your daily functioning, talk with your doctor. Most hospitals have a psychosocial oncology department or support service. Professionals will help you get the support you need.
Although its primary biological role is breastfeeding infants, for some women, the breast is significant in terms of aesthetics, seduction and sexuality. Breast cancer treatment and its side effects can alter your body and the image you have of it. You may feel like a stranger to yourself because of breast removal, hair loss, weight gain or loss, decreased energy or libido, etc. All these changes may be difficult to cope with, and you may experience a wide range of emotions, leading to anxiety and psychological distress.
Here are some suggestions to help you live better with your new body:
Returning to work is motivating for some women because it means things getting back to normal. For others, it’s a scary step. You are in the best position to know if you are ready to go back to work.
Plan your return to work carefully so it is easy and worry-free. Involve your healthcare team and employer in supporting you and making it easier. Discuss your return to work with your healthcare team:
Here are some tips to help you return to work:
Some survivors may face discrimination when they return to work (layoff, demotion, denial of illness benefits and time off for medical appointments, conflict with coworkers, etc.). Be aware that such discrimination is illegal and that you are protected and have rights.