Maintaining Physical Activity
A healthy routine of physical activity can help patients with cancer such as mesothelioma, avoid developing certain conditions that could further complicate their treatment. In the past doctors often recommended rest and a reduction in physical activity for their patients. However, recent studies have shown that patients are often advised to remain active helping improve bodily function, build up muscle strength, and improve range of movement. Exercise, even light exercise can be beneficial for patients.
The American Cancer Society states that exercise can have several mental, emotional, and physical benefits for cancer patients, including:
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- Lessening Nausea
- Improving physical ability
- Improving balance, helping with the risk of falling
- Combating muscle degradation due to inactivity
- Improve self-esteem
- Lowering the risk of heart disease
- Lessening the risk of osteoporosis
- Improve blood flow, lessening the risk of blood clotting
- Better quality of life
- Weight control
- Fewer symptoms of fatigue
- Improving social life and companionship
- Allowing for less dependence on others for normal activities and needs
Establishing a Routine
Although there are several benefits mentioned, those receiving treatment for mesothelioma should keep in mind that activity should remain enjoyable, effective, and safe. Patients should always be aware of any physical limitations they may have, and inform their doctor of any changes in physical activity. Doctors can collaborate with their patients in order to devise a program that accounts for the patient’s overall health, as well as their stage of cancer, and any other factors pertinent to their health. This will ensure that the patient receive the best possible results from their workouts.
Risks
As with any person there is always a risk when undertaking any form of exercise. For mesothelioma patients in particular, the doctor and patient should remain cognizant of activities that could affect the lungs and heart, or wind the patient, making it difficult to regain their breath. Patients should pay close attention to their bodies and any signs of exertion or unusual reactions and sensations, reporting them to a doctor immediately. Patients are advised to begin their routines slowly, building upon their program as their strength improves.
Fatigue is often associated with cancer and cancer treatments, increasing during chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, research suggests that aerobic training has been known to help assist with this common side effect.
Success
The key to successful routines is to make them simple and fun. The main objective of any form of exercise is to feel better and relieve stress. In order to enhance these results patients should enjoy their exercise programs. The ACS advises patients to set goals for their routines, focus on enjoying themselves, recognize and reward achievement, and implement friends, family, and co-workers as exercise partners.
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