Any type of surgery can feel incredibly invasive, and this is especially true when it comes to throat cancer. Even after the treatment is over, the idea of cancer returning is still a fear many have. Although it is difficult not to worry, at this point in time it is important to focus on recovering. Here are a few things that could help you recover more efficiently after you have had throat cancer surgery.
Get a Survivorship Care Plan
A survivorship care plan includes information about your type of cancer and any treatments you have had in the past. It also includes follow-up tests and checkups needed in the future and when you need to go for them. This care plan details the long-term effects your treatments may bring, what to look out for, and various ideas to help you stay healthy. If your doctor hasn’t already given you one, you can request one from your doctor. A survivorship care plan is a useful thing to have as it will ensure you and your doctors are on the same page about your health.
Follow-Up Care is Key
When it comes to getting back to your everyday self, follow-up care is key. With a risk of developing new cancers and a risk of the same cancer coming back, it is important that you have a quality cancer care team around you to monitor your recovery after surgery. For example, Moffitt Cancer Center employs a multi-specialty team and are leaders in research. Their qualified team can offer you top-quality care and will guide you through the after-surgery process to ensure you get the best result possible. Their website, moffitt.org, details symptoms of throat cancer to look out for as well.
Generally, people who have had cancer treatment can experience side effects, and these side effects can last between a few weeks to an entire lifetime. Qualified experts can help you deal with these symptoms effectively.
Don’t Skip Visits to the Doctor
As mentioned above, follow-up care is incredibly important, especially straight after surgery. After cancer treatment has been completed, you may be required to visit your doctor for a few years so that they can keep an eye on your health. Although it might seem tedious to see the doctor so often, attending every follow-up visit is in your best interest. Future visits can involve physical examinations and endoscopy tests. During these visits, you should speak to your doctor about any new problems or changes you experience. You can use this time to voice any concerns you may have.
Stay Away From Tobacco
If you are a smoker and you have had trouble getting rid of this bad habit, now is definitely the time to try harder. Continuing to smoke after treatment can put you at a higher risk of developing a new type of cancer. There are plenty of online resources to help you quit smoking for good. In addition to giving up the habit, adopting a healthier lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body weight could have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being.
