To all of you who know someone who is fighting this dreadful disease, know someone who has passed on, or may even be fighting this battle yourself... I hope you find some comfort here at this site, whether it be an article, a link, or even a picture. My heart is with you, for I have lost my dear sister Janel who was only 42 at her passing October 26th, 2009. This young woman never drank alcohol or smoked a day in her life. She was a third degree brown belt in karate and only lived for three days following her diagnosis. I encourage everyone to support research and funding for this silent killer.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Battling the Effects of Cancer Treatments With a Fitness Plan


When faced with the issue of cancer treatment, many of the most difficult problems are the symptoms that may drag a person's energy levels down. However, it is very possible to combat negative treatment effects by exercising. A proper fitness routine has been shown to decrease stress levels while conditioning the body to have more stamina in those going through chemotherapy or radiation treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, chemical treatments have been known to cause side effects, both mental and physical in patients.

Exercise can allow cancer patients to increase overall energy, sleep more comfortably, and recover faster from treatments that may cause insomnia, lethargy, and mental havoc. Due to the inactivity commonly associated after a patient undergoes treatment, exercise can keep survivors active and help patients maintain a healthy weight. Prior to exercise, a complete physical should be done with a doctor to determine what type of fitness plan is appropriate. Factors, such as treatment options, disease prognosis, and current level of fitness are taken into account when creating an exercise plan. For those suffering with lung cancer or mesothelioma, a specific exercise plan must be created that does not cause additional complications to the respiratory system. This is why it is especially important to consult with a doctor when attempting to create an exercise plan.

Common effects of leukemic or mesothelioma treatment include irritability, fatigue, and reduced confidence. However, an exercise plan may help relieve some of these problems by reducing stress, increasing energy, and improving your mood. In addition, fitness plans allow you to become stronger, thinner, and fit while lowering the chances of developing heart disease. Other benefits include reducing the chance of diabetes and obesity. The American Cancer Society has also proven through research that recurrences of cancer can be kept to a minimum if a healthy diet and exercise are employed into the lifestyle of a patient that is doing chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

Exercise is not the cure for this deadly disease but it may help with other aspects of life that are common amongst cancer patients undergoing harsh treatments. Furthermore, the benefits of exercising weigh heavily in favor for cancer patients who seek a form of mental and physical relief during such a difficult time.

By: David Haas

4 comments:

Linda Rogers said...

I have nominated your inspirational blog for an award. Just click on the link.
http://twincessone.blogspot.com/2011/10/thanks-for-tell-me-about-yourself-award.html#links

Monica said...

Another positive aspect of a healthy diet and trying to keep your weight yourself healthy while you are going through cancer treatments...Cancer is adnormal cell growth, by not gaining weight you are keeping possible cancer cells from spreading just in theory... I am sure a doctor would argue my point.

Bradley Elliot said...

I loved that blog...

Unknown said...

Admin, if not okay please remove!

Our facebook group “selfless” is spending this month spreading awareness on prostate cancer & research with a custom t-shirt design. Purchase proceeds will go to cancer.org, as listed on the shirt and shirt design.

Thanks

www.teespring.com/prostate-cancer-research