Rehabilitation from breast cancer
Breast cancer surgery is an important step in the fight against the disease for patients, while post-operative rehabilitation is an essential road to a healthy life, a process that requires the concerted efforts of patients, their families and health-care providers.
At the level of physical recovery, care for wounds is the basis. Post-operative wounds need to be kept clean and dry, which is key to preventing infection. Patients are required to exchange medicines on a regular basis, in strict accordance with the guidance of the medical staff, and to monitor closely whether the wound is permeable to blood, leachate or red edema fever, and to inform the doctor in a timely manner if abnormal. The care of the fluids is also essential, as it is important to take care of the colour, quantity and nature of the fluids, to ensure that they are smooth and to avoid distortions or congestion, which is important for reducing post-operative complications.
The rehabilitation of upper limbs is the focus of post-cancer rehabilitation. Since the operation may affect the lymph flow and muscle function of upper limbs, rehabilitation training needs to be conducted as early as possible. In the early stages of the post-operative period, it is possible to start with simple handshakes and loose fists, gradually increasing hand stretching exercises and promoting blood circulation. As the recovery gradually improves, the stretching of elbows and small-scale shoulder activities, such as bell swinging, are carried out. This could be followed by more challenging activities, such as wall climbing exercises, to help restore the scope and strength of the upper limbs. However, rehabilitation training should be based on the principle of graduality, avoiding injuries caused by excessive force, and preventing problems such as swelling.
Dietary adjustment plays an important role in rehabilitation. After the operation, the patient ‘ s body requires a large amount of nutrition to facilitate healing and physical recovery. High-quality protein intakes, such as chicken, fish, shrimp, eggs, dairy products and beans, should be increased, which provide the necessary inputs for the physical rehabilitation of damaged tissue. At the same time, fresh vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, carrots, oranges and strawberries, rich in vitamins and minerals, contribute to increased immunity and physical resistance. Care should also be taken to control fat and sugar intake, to reduce high-calorie foods, such as fried foods, pastries and beverages, and to avoid overweight growth, as obesity may adversely affect rehabilitation.
Psychological rehabilitation is an indispensible component of post-cancer rehabilitation. As an important part of women ‘ s physical characteristics, surgical removal can cause psychological trauma to patients, such as low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. Families and friends must give their patients full care and support and encourage them to express their feelings. Patients can also communicate with other breast cancer rehabilitationers on their own initiative to gain strength and experience from them. If necessary, assistance from a professional psychologist is sought to help the patient develop a positive optimism through psychological guidance and intervention, which has far-reaching implications for the rehabilitation effect.
In addition, regular review is an important measure to ensure the quality of rehabilitation. Regular breast examinations, blood tests, video tests, etc. can identify possible signs of relapse or other health problems in time for timely adjustment of treatment programmes. Rehabilitation after breast cancer is a long and complex process, but with a positive response, patients have a full chance to regain their health and embrace a better life.
