The Benefits Of Exercise For Cancer Patients
After a diagnosis of cancer, a person’s daily activity levels will likely decrease. This is especially true after cancer symptoms become more prevalent, and as more time is dedicated to doctor’s appointments and or treatment. Yet, regular exercise is essential to a person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. For healthy people, it is usually a matter of time or priorities. For cancer patients, exercise can be painful or difficult, even though it is helpful.
In times past, people with cancer and other chronic diseases were encouraged to reduce their activity level and get rest. Today, according to the American Cancer Society , exercise is considered safe and possible for cancer patients. It can improve the way the body functions, and it promotes a better quality of life.
Exercise And Cancer
Fortunately, any movement or activity that does not cause pain or put too much stress on the body is good for cancer patients. Even patients of aggressive cancers like mesothelioma can benefit from exercise, as long as they can breathe comfortably and the activity does not put too much stress on their lungs. Gentle exercise may actually ease the pain of cancer and may contribute to the success of treatment.
Medical studies have shown exercise to be effective in reducing the risk of various types of cancer. In fact, research suggests that exercise may decrease the mortality rate for some cancers. Cancer patients who move their bodies and stay active decrease their chances of developing the side effects of lengthy bed rest, including weak muscles, stiff joints, and constipation.
Exercise is thought to increase a patient’s energy level so the body is more receptive to cancer treatment. It also improves the moods and outlooks of cancer patients, helping them stay positive through the process.
Exercise And Thoracic
Since mesothelioma and other thoracic cancers affect the lungs, it impacts a person’s ability to breathe. Later-stage patients cannot breathe comfortably without the help of oxygen tanks and machines. This decreased lung function makes exercise difficult, if not impossible, for people with mesothelioma.. Lung cancer and mesothelioma prognosis prognosis are typically brief when detected in later stages. As such, thoracic cancer patients should consult their physician for their blessing to commence physical activities.. In some cases, patients may be able to participate in physical activities such as short walks or physical therapy. Depending on how the patient feels, any type of activity can positively impact his or her life. Even gentle movements can boost a patient’s mood, increase the appetite, and relieve some of the aches and pains of cancer.
This is written by a new friend that asked me to post this on my blog.
Hope it inspires you all to get up and exercise after a cancer diagnosis.
thanks David
