The After Cancer Blog

Patients suffering from chemofog have difficulty concentrating, memory loss, and disrupted sleep. Even if temporary, these symptoms have a real impact on quality of life. To reduce them, follow these 5 tips. Exercise It cannot be repeated enough: regular physical activity is good for general health. And not just for your body, your brain benefits too. Exercise can promote the secretion of molecules that are beneficial to the brain. In particular, activities that cause small impacts on the ground like running or jumping rope. Research on the subject is still too recent to understand exactly why, but positive effects have been observed. However, be careful not to overdo it, risking unnecessary fatigue and injury. Instead, try to integrate regular, moderate, and specially adapted practice into your lifestyle. Feed your brain In the long term, diet can contribute to intellectual functioning by providing the brain with the nutrients it needs. And first and foremost, the lipids of which it is mostly composed. You can adapt your diet by adding foods rich in omega-3s such as nuts, almonds, and hazelnuts, or fatty fish such as sardines, salmon, or herring. Try meditation Perhaps you have heard of mindfulness meditation? This technique is known to help distance negative thoughts and emotions. It also helps improve your cognition. Training yourself to bring your mind back to the present moment whenever it wanders, this practice increases your mental flexibility and strengthens your attention. Something else you can try is ASMR - Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. This concept involves broadcasting pleasant, repetitive sounds to help you relax. Numerous ASMR videos and podcasts are available for free on the Internet. Improve your sleep Good cognitive functioning also requires good sleep. If you have sleep problems, follow the tips in our blog post about sleep disorders. Take care of your anxiety Are you anxious, nervous, or even depressed? These mood disorders act like short circuits in your brain. If they persist despite the implementation of the routines we mentioned earlier, do not hesitate to turn to cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT).

Many cancer patients experience sleep disturbances but don't worry, there are ways to improve your sleep. You may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or you might have the total opposite - oversleeping. Other problems are possible, such as sleep apnea (your breathing stops for a few moments while you sleep) and sleep-related movement disorders, such as restless leg syndrome. However, the most common sleep disorder that cancer patients experience is insomnia, i.e., difficulty falling or staying asleep. It's important to take sleep disorders seriously. When you sleep poorly, it can be even more challenging to cope with cancer. Poor sleep can have a negative impact on mood, pain , and fatigue . It can weaken the immune system and interfere with healing during treatment. It can also lead to memory problems and difficulty thinking clearly. What causes sleep disorders? Cancer or its treatments can disrupt your sleep patterns. When staying in the hospital, a place that is often noisy, busy, and different from home, you may also have a harder time sleeping. If you experience anxiety, stress, depression, or pain, your sleep problems are likely to worsen. Various side effects and symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, diarrhea, constipation, or flu-like symptoms, can lead to or worsen sleep disorders. If you wake up more frequently at night to urinate or experience night sweats or hot flashes, your sleep may not be as restorative as it should be. Certain medications such as hormone replacements, steroids, sedatives, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants can also affect your sleep. What do sleep disorders feel like? The symptoms of sleep disorders may vary, but they include: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep Waking up feeling tired or not feeling rested after sleeping Feeling very drowsy during the day Irregular breathing during sleep Moving more during sleep Difficulty concentrating Feeling irritable How to treat sleep disorders? We will try to find the source of your sleep disorder (e.g., if it is a side effect of medication prescribed in your treatment plan) and suggest ways to manage the source of the sleep problem. If no underlying cause can be identified, our team will focus on the sleep problem itself. Treatment depends on the type of sleep disorder you experience and may include the following options: Medications – Your healthcare team may prescribe medications that will help you sleep or relieve symptoms that interfere with your sleep in the short term. Cognitive-behavioral therapy – This is a treatment specifically designed for insomnia, administered by a therapist with specialized training. This treatment can help you recognize the thoughts and behaviors that cause or aggravate your sleep problems and replace them with habits that promote better sleep. This technique is as effective as prescription drugs but has the advantage of not causing side effects. Sleep Aids – If your breathing is interrupted while you sleep, a special device may help you breathe and enjoy better quality sleep. Easy tips to try a home You can also try certain things to achieve better sleep, including: Get up at the same time every day, regardless of how long you slept the night before. It is tempting to sleep in after a bad night, but this can make it even harder to fall asleep in the evening. Engage in physical activity at least once a day, preferably in the morning or afternoon rather than in the evening. If you nap during the day, do so before 3 p.m. and try to limit it to a maximum of 30 minutes. Don't keep your worries and fears to yourself. Talk to someone during the day or write them down. This will help you manage them, and you will have a clearer mind when it's time to fall asleep at night. Avoid caffeinated beverages 6 to 8 hours before bedtime. Avoid sugary and alcoholic beverages late at night. Avoid using your cell phone, tablet, or computer and watching TV at least 60 to 90 minutes before bedtime. The light emitted by these devices can affect the sleep hormones your body produces. Before going to bed, do something pleasant and relaxing under dim lighting like reading a book or taking a hot bath. Keep your room dark, cool, and comfortable. Use a white noise machine to mask sounds that could disturb your sleep. Go to bed only when you are sleepy. If you can't fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed and do something pleasant and relaxing under dim lighting. Return to bed when you are sleepy. To help you sleep, try meditative or relaxation exercises, deep breathing, or listening to soothing music.

One of the most common side effects of cancer treatments is cancer fatigue, a feeling of physical and emotional tiredness that can last for months. In this post, we'll explore cancer fatigue symptoms, what cancer fatigue feels like, and ways to manage it. What is cancer fatigue? Cancer fatigue is a multi-dimensional symptom that can have various contributing causes, making it a complex symptom to manage. It can show up in different forms and affect people with cancer differently. Some people experience fatigue during cancer treatment, while others experience it after completing treatment. Post-cancer fatigue syndrome is a type of cancer fatigue that affects people after cancer treatment, making it hard to perform routine activities. Fatigue can be challenging to manage and is often accompanied by other symptoms like pain, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. What does cancer fatigue feel like? Cancer fatigue symptoms can manifest differently in each person, making it challenging to define what it feels like for everyone. Generally, cancer fatigue is described as a feeling of physical and emotional tiredness that doesn't improve with rest. People with cancer fatigue may feel a lack of energy, weakness, or exhaustion. The severity of cancer tiredness can vary and can be debilitating, making it hard to perform daily activities. What causes cancer fatigue? Cancer fatigue can have many contributing causes, including the type of cancer and treatment received, existing diseases, medications, living and working conditions, and mental status. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause cancer fatigue. Chemotherapy-induced fatigue, also known as chemo fatigue, is particularly challenging to manage, as it can be severe and long-lasting. How to manage cancer fatigue? While there is no simple medical treatment for cancer fatigue, there are many ways to manage it. Physical activity , such as moderate exercise, has been shown to boost energy levels, reduce fatigue, and improve the overall quality of life for people with cancer. Exercise can also help prevent muscle wasting and improve strength and endurance. Cognitive-behavioral interventions, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and relaxation techniques can help manage cancer fatigue by reducing stress and improving sleep quality. Mindfulness-based stress reduction is a mind-body intervention that teaches people to be present in the present moment and non-judgmental of their thoughts and feelings. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. In addition to exercise and relaxation techniques, it's important to maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help provide the energy and nutrients needed to combat cancer fatigue. Staying hydrated can also help prevent dehydration, which can contribute to fatigue. Getting enough sleep and establishing a regular sleep routine can help improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue. Conclusion Cancer fatigue is a common side effect of cancer treatments that can affect people with cancer in different ways. It's a complex symptom that can be challenging to manage, but there are many ways to alleviate cancer-related fatigue, including physical activity, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. If you're experiencing cancer fatigue, talk to a therapist to develop an individualized plan to manage it. Remember, managing cancer fatigue is an essential part of cancer care and can help improve overall quality of life.

Benefits of massage after cancer Massage therapy can offer numerous benefits for cancer survivors, promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, and improving overall well-being. It can help you cope with the physical and emotional effects of cancer treatment. In fact, massage has been shown to enhance circulation, boost the immune system, and support the body's natural healing processes. In addition to its physical benefits, massage therapy can also provide emotional support. It offers a safe and nurturing space where you can experience touch and human connection, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. Relieving the pain with safe massage techniques When receiving massage therapy after cancer treatment, it is crucial to communicate openly with the massage therapist about your specific needs and health history. Massage techniques can be modified to accommodate any surgical scars, radiation sites, or areas of sensitivity. The therapist will use gentle and nurturing touch, adjusting the pressure and techniques to ensure comfort and safety. Massage techniques commonly used for cancer survivors include Swedish massage, which promotes relaxation and improved circulation, and gentle touch therapies such as lymphatic drainage massage, which can help reduce swelling and support the immune system. These techniques can aid in pain relief, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall relaxation. Seek professional care for your pain It is important to seek professional care when considering massage therapy as part of your pain management strategy as a cancer survivor. A qualified and experienced massage therapist with specific training in oncology massage can provide the necessary expertise and understanding of the unique needs and considerations of cancer survivors. Prior to starting massage therapy, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare team to ensure it is appropriate for your individual situation. They can provide guidance, address any concerns, and offer recommendations for reputable massage therapists in your area. Massage therapy offers numerous benefits like pain relief, relaxation, and emotional support. With appropriate modifications and techniques, massage can be safe and effective for addressing the physical and emotional challenges that may arise after cancer treatment. But it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals and seek the care of qualified massage therapists who specialize in working with cancer survivors. By incorporating massage therapy into your overall wellness plan, you can enhance your recovery, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life as a cancer survivor. Get started with The After Cancer

What does each term mean? When it comes to cancer, there are several terms used to describe a person's status after treatment. Understanding the differences between being cancer-free, in remission, and having no evidence of disease (NED) can provide clarity and peace of mind. Being cancer-free indicates that there are no detectable cancer cells in the body at the time of evaluation. It suggests a successful completion of treatment and a lack of visible signs of the disease. However, it is important to note that cancer-free does not guarantee that cancer will never return. In-remission refers to a period when the signs and symptoms of cancer have significantly reduced or disappeared following treatment. It indicates that there is no evidence of active disease based on medical assessments. Remission can be partial, where some cancer cells remain, or complete, where no cancer cells are detectable. Regular follow-up is required to monitor any potential recurrence. NED is another term used to describe a patient whose medical tests show no evidence of cancer at that particular time. It implies a lack of detectable cancer cells, but it does not guarantee that cancer will not reappear in the future. NED is often used when the possibility of a recurrence remains low, but continuous monitoring is still necessary. Am I really cured? The term "cured" is not commonly used in cancer treatment discussions. It is challenging to definitively state that someone is cured of cancer since it is possible for cancer to recur even after an extended period of remission or being NED. However, the longer the time since treatment completion without any signs of cancer, the less likely a recurrence becomes. Regular medical follow-up is essential to detect any potential recurrence early. Supportive care for cancer survivors For cancer survivors, post-treatment care focuses on maintaining overall health, managing side effects of treatment, and monitoring for any signs of recurrence. This may include regular check-ups, imaging tests, blood work, and other evaluations as determined by the healthcare team. In addition, you may benefit from support services such as counseling, survivorship programs, and support groups that address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of life after cancer. It is crucial for you to communicate openly with your healthcare team, report any concerning symptoms, and stay engaged in your post-treatment care plan. By taking an active role in your health, you can optimize your well-being and continue to live a fulfilling life beyond cancer. Understanding the differences between being cancer-free, in remission, and having no evidence of disease provides clarity on a survivor's status after treatment. While the terminology may vary, it is important to stay vigilant, prioritize regular follow-up care, and maintain open communication with healthcare providers. By doing so, you can focus on your continued well-being and embrace life beyond cancer. Get started with The After Cancer