There is always a fear in cancer survivors that the cancer will come back. Though we cannot control whether the cancer will come back, we can control how much this fear will affect our life. This is Dr. Murali Subramanian, Medical Oncologist in Bangalore, this blog is dedicated to the various ways cancer survivors and how to manage the fear of cancer recurrence.
Tips for coping with the fear of recurrence
We know that living with uncertainty is never easy. However, it is important to remind yourself that fear and anxiety is normal factors of survivorship. Worrying about cancer recurrence is normally most intense the first year after treatment. In most patients, this worry usually gets better over time.
I will today share with you a few ideas to help you or your loved one cope with the fear of recurrence:
- Recognize your emotions. It is recommended that you never hide your emotions. Many cancer survivors I have seen try to hide or ignore negative feelings like fear and anxiety. When you ignore them, it only allows them to become stronger over a period of time and more overwhelming. We usually recommend our patients to talk about their fears with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. When you talk out loud about your feelings, it may help you figure out the reasons behind your fears. You will be able to know why you are feeling this way- the fear of having to repeat cancer treatment, losing control over your life, or facing death. Another way our fighters have coped with fear is by writing down their feelings.
- Don’t ignore your fears. It is normal to experience fears. So do not be hard on yourself for not being brave enough. By criticizing yourself for these emotions will only suppress your strength. Accept your feelings and focus your energy on managing them. Know that these emotions cannot always be managed and may increase temporarily. It may flare up before follow-up visits and if you hear other’s stories. Your fears may never come true.
- Do not worry alone. We know that most people lead busy lives and may not always be there to hear your concerns. Hence we suggest our fighters join support groups. People in these groups are usually more understanding and less judgemental. Joining these groups also allow you to exchange practical information and helpful tips. The experience often creates a sense of belonging that helps survivors feel less alone.
- Reduce stress. Every person deals with stress differently. Finding ways to manage the stress that suits your personality will help lower your overall level of anxiety. You could try different ways of reducing stress to find out what works best for you. This could include:
- Quality time with family and friends
- Focus on hobbies and other activities you enjoy
- Meditation and other relaxing techniques
- Exercising
- Reading a book or watching a comedy movie
- Be well informed. Some people tend to worry that every ache or pain is an indication of cancer recurrence. Remember that most cancers have a predictable pattern of recurrence, hence talking to your doctor can tell you clearly about the chances of cancer coming back. Being informed will help you get rid of unnecessary fear and anxiety. You must know about what symptoms to look out for.
- Talk with your doctor about follow-up tests. Follow-up visits should not be avoided as they are intended to check for a recurrence of cancer. Your follow-up visit may include physical examinations or medical tests to keep track of your recovery. Having a regular schedule of follow-up visits can help you get a sense of control.
- Make a healthy lifestyle choice. Healthy habits like eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep help people feel better both physically and emotionally. Avoiding unhealthy habits, like smoking and excessive drinking, helps people feel like they have more control over their health. You might find yourself overwhelmed by fear or anxiety even after your best efforts to cope with it.
But if you are feeling the below feelings for a prolonged time, please talk to your doctor or visit Top Medical Oncologist in Bangalore:
- Worry or anxiety that gets in the way of your relationships and daily activities or prevents you from going to your follow-up appointments
- Feeling hopeless about the future
- Having trouble sleeping or eating well
- Not participating in activities you used to enjoy
- Having trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling that you have nothing to look forward to
- Being unusually forgetful
If you are concerned about anything on this list, talk with your doctor or write to me. This is Dr. Murali Subramanian, Medical Oncologist in Bangalore.