Self-management after breast cancer
Breast cancer surgery is an important treatment phase for patients, and post-operative self-management is the key to the quality of rehabilitation. In terms of physical recovery, care for wounds is the first priority. Post-operative wounds need to be kept clean and dry, to avoid water contamination and to prevent infection. The dressings are periodically replaced as ordered by the doctor, and care is taken to observe any abnormality in the wound, such as redness, seepage or heat. The doctor should be contacted in a timely manner if hemorrhoids are found to increase in the skin around the wound, which is odoured or which is unusual. While the wound may be ticklish during healing, care must be taken not to scratch at will in order to damage the nascent organization. Appropriate sports are an integral part of post-cancer recovery. Some simple upper limb activities, such as fists and elbows, can be carried out at an early stage, which can help to promote blood circulation and reduce upper limb oedema. As the recovery situation gradually increases the amount of exercise, actions such as combing heads and climbing walls can be gradually tried to restore upper limb mobility and muscle strength. However, the exercise should be gradual in order to avoid overwork or sudden and intense movement leading to the fracture of the wound. When the body is further recovered, a number of fully aerobics, such as walking, yoga, etc., can be properly carried out, but care is taken to avoid overstretching or stretching on the side. Reasonable dietary adjustments are essential for post-operative recovery. Adequate protein intake, such as skinny meat, fish, beans, etc., should be ensured, which helps heal wounds and repair body tissues. More fresh vegetables and fruits are eaten, with vitamins and minerals that increase body immunity. Reduce intake of high-fat and sugary foods and avoid excessive weight gain. At the same time, care should be taken to balance and diversify diets and to maintain regular eating habits. Psychological self-management should also not be overlooked. After breast cancer, patients may face psychological problems such as changing their physical image and fear of a relapse into disease. Actively facing their emotional changes can relieve psychological stress by communicating with family and friends. Joining the group is also a good option to find emotional support and experience in dealing with disease in communication with people with similar experiences. At the same time, it is important to learn to be self-incentived, to remain optimistic and to recognize the contribution of a positive psychological state to physical recovery. The quality of sleep is also guaranteed in the context of self-management. To create a quiet, comfortable, warm and suitable sleep environment and to maintain regular space. Choose the right sleeping position to avoid the oppression of the side limbs. If sleep disorders, such as pain, affect sleep, a doctor may be contacted to see whether an adjustment to the treatment programme or appropriate mitigation measures are required. Periodic review is an important part of self-management after breast cancer. The review is carried out in accordance with the doctor ‘ s schedule and the examination project, which allows for the timely identification of possible problems, such as tumour recurrence or transfer, post-operative complications, etc. The review items usually include medical examinations, visual examinations, blood tests, etc. In the margins of the review, medical treatment should also be provided in a timely manner in the event of new abnormalities in the body, such as pain for unknown reasons, sharp loss of weight, and difficulty of breathing. Through active and effective self-management, breast cancer patients are better able to promote post-operative recovery and improve their quality of life.
