Practical advice for coping with life after breast cancer

You may not be able to imagine what life will be like after being diagnosed with breast cancer. But the most important thing to know is that you are not alone in this journey. There are many women who have gone through this experience just like you. So, today we will talk about how to deal with the daily challenges you will face during this journey of recovery. We hope these will help you.

Are we ready for hair loss?

This is a question that many women face when they are diagnosed with breast cancer. Sure, losing your hair for a life-saving treatment may seem like a small thing to others, but we know how difficult it can be for you.

But not everyone loses their hair. If you do, it will grow back. To reduce the shock of this process, it's a good idea to cut your hair short before starting your chemotherapy.

There are several ways to go hairless . Some people leave it as it is, others wear a nice scarf or hat, and still others choose to use a wig.

Although human-hair wigs are a bit more expensive (around Rs. 30,000-50,000), they look and feel real and are very easy to use. But ask in advance if insurance will cover this. Also, it is a good idea to keep a synthetic wig as an extra. Because they will retain their shape even after washing and drying. But remember, heat (e.g. blow dryer, flat iron) is not good for synthetic wigs.

Let's think a little about your appearance.

Cancer treatments can make you look sicker than you really are. Chemotherapy can make your skin dry and sometimes take on a gray, green, or yellow hue. And when your eyebrows and eyelashes fall out, your face can look hollow. It's good for you to take some time to hide these changes. It can also make you feel better.

See the table below for some simple things you can do.

Let's learn about clothing after surgery.

Choosing the right bra

The bra you should wear after surgery depends on the type of surgery you had and your doctor's instructions. Typically, the goal in the early stages is to create a "sports bra effect." That is, to reduce pain and scarring when the breasts move, and to keep everything in place. Many medical compression bras have hooks in the front, making them easy to put on and take off.

Initially, your doctor may ask you to wear a bra 24 hours a day. If you have large breasts, you may find it more comfortable to sleep on your non-operated side and place a pillow under your operated breast.

If you have had a mastectomy and are not having breast reconstruction, talk to a bra specialist about your options. There are various types of breast forms or prostheses that can be used to fill the space where your breasts were.

Comfort from clothes

If you are having a mastectomy, pack some large shirts with a zip or buttons in the front . You will not be able to lift your arms for a while after the surgery, so you will not be able to wear head coverings.

Also, after surgery, you may have drains installed to drain fluids from your body. To manage these, you can use a lanyard that you wear around your neck. These tubes clip onto the lanyard, making it easier to access when bathing or changing clothes.

When going for chemotherapy, wear light clothing, such as pants with elastic at the waist, and comfortable shoes. Clothes and bedding made of a non-slip fabric, such as silk, will help you get in and out of bed after surgery.

You need help - get support.

You may find it comforting to talk to others who have been through breast cancer like you. Perhaps you prefer an online support group that you can join and leave at your own pace, rather than an organized meeting. Choose what works for you.

The most important thing is, don't be shy about asking others for help with things like cooking, gardening, or going to the store. The energy you get from that can be used to heal.

Be patient with your new "you".

Recovering from cancer surgery and treatment is a process. It takes time to get used to your new body. You may feel upset about your appearance at first. But over time, as the scars fade and the swelling goes down, you will get used to yourself again.

Sometimes, self-acceptance is just a matter of making up your mind.

If you have trouble coming to terms with your body, go to a mirror and spend some time there. First, while dressed, look at the parts of your body that you like. Then do the same with your underwear. Finally, sit naked and find the parts of your body that make you happy. This exercise will help you overcome your body image concerns and feelings of being unattractive. Accepting yourself the way you are is the first step to building a close relationship with your partner.

If you have any questions or concerns about any of these, never suffer alone. Talk to your doctor about this openly. He or she will provide you with the guidance and support you need.