You’ve done it! You’ve fought kidney cancer and won. It’s a considerable achievement, and you should be proud. But now what? Life after cancer can be tricky. You might feel lost or scared. That’s okay. This blog will help you navigate your new normal.
We’ll talk about keeping your kidneys healthy, getting check-ups, and really focusing on yourself. We’ll also analyze how blending traditional medication like Ayurveda with current medicines can help. This approach is called integrative cancer care, and it’s gaining prevalence in the present day.
Remember, you’re not the only one on this complicated journey. How about we make a plunge and perceive how you can carry on with your best life after kidney cancer survival?
Checking How Well Your Kidney Works:
Your kidney has endured a great deal. It’s fundamental to watch out for how it’s doing. Here are a few different ways specialists actually take a look at your kidney health:
Blood tests: These are done to determine the cleanliness of your kidneys. The primary test, creatinine, is straightforward and quick.
Urine tests: They are used to check the protein or blood in urine as they might indicate some problems.
Imaging tests: Occasionally, specialists need to inspect your kidney. They could utilize ultrasound, CT outputs, or X-rays, which take images of your kidney.
GFR test: This represents the Glomerular Filtration Rate. It tells how much blood your kidney can channel every moment.
If you need assistance understanding any of these tests, don’t worry. Your doctor will explain what they mean. The main thing is to get them done when your doctor says to.
In Ayurveda, doctors also look at other signs of kidney health. They might check your tongue and pulse or ask about your digestion. These old methods can work well with modern tests. It’s all about understanding the complete picture of your kidney health.
Follow-Up Appointments:
After beating cancer, there is an utter requirement to meet your doctor regularly. These check-ups are essential. For example;
You might need check-ups every few months, or, later, once or twice a year.
The doctor will examine you. They’ll ask how you’re feeling. You might have some of the tests we talked about earlier.
Be honest: Tell your doctor about any new symptoms or worries. No detail is too small.
Seek the help of your friend: It can be helpful to have a friend or family member with you. They can help you remember what the doctor says.
Getting clarifications: Record any inquiries you have before you go. Kindly don’t hesitate to ask them.
Keep records: Keep a document of all your clinical data, including test results and specialist’s notes. Certain individuals additionally see an Ayurvedic specialist close by their standard specialist. This can be useful.
However, you should always inform both of your doctors of all of your treatments. This avoids any confusion.
Keep in mind that these check-ups are for your wellbeing and true serenity. Even if you’re feeling great, don’t skip them because they can spot problems early.
Keeping Your Kidney Healthy:
Your remaining kidney is working hard for you. Here’s how to keep it in top shape.
Drink water: Your kidneys need water to work well. Aim for eight glasses a day, but do just what is necessary. In certain cases, drinking much water can be harmful.
Eat well: A kidney-friendly diet can help. This means:
- Less salt
- More fruits and veggies
- Lean proteins like fish or chicken
- Whole grains
Watch your blood pressure: Hypertension can hurt your kidneys. Regularly check it.
Be cautious with medicines: A few medications can hurt your kidneys. Continuously ask your doctor prior to taking new ones, including over-the-counter ones.
No smoking: Smoking is dangerous for your kidneys (and all the other parts as well). So, as soon as possible, attempt to stop.
Keep alcohol at its minimum: Most people can drink a little. However, too much can damage your kidneys.
Work out: Physical activity helps keep your kidneys healthy. It is not necessary to be intense. Indeed, even a day-to-day walk can help. Balance is emphasized in Ayurveda. It could propose spices like Punarnava or Gokshura, which are known to help kidney wellbeing. It likewise suggests yoga and meditation to assist with handling stress, which is good for your kidneys.
Find the most suitable plan for you by consulting with your doctors.
Looking After Yourself
Beating cancer is a big deal. But on the other hand, it can influence you in numerous ways. They might include particular side effects or complications.
Mental health: Occasionally, feeling worried is common. Talk to someone if these feelings become too much. This could be a companion, relative, or specialist.
Sound sleep: Good sleep assists your body with recuperating. Try to get 7-9 hours each night.
Manage stress: Find ways to relax. This could be reading, gardening, or listening to music. Whatever works for you.
Remain social: Interact with individuals you like. Join a care group to meet others who’ve had to deal with comparable encounters.
Have some goals: Having things to pursue can assist you in feeling good. Fire a little and develop.
Be good to yourself: Recuperation takes time. Try not to propel yourself excessively.
Eat well: Great food helps your body and mind. Eat more vegetables and leafy foods.
Move your body: Physical activity can improve your mood. It doesn’t need to be to hard. Indeed, even delicate yoga helps.
Ayurveda takes a whole-person approach to health. They might suggest:
Meditation: This can help calm your mind.
Massage: Gentle massage with warm oils can be relaxing.
Breathing exercises: These can help reduce stress.
Herbal teas: Some herbs are thought to support overall health.
Remember, healing isn’t just about your body alone. It talks about the mind and spirit as well. So, take time to do things that make you happy and spend time in nature.
Integrative Cancer Care
More and more, people are mixing different types of care. This is called integrative care. It means using the best of modern medicine and traditional practices, like Ayurveda.
For kidney cancer survivors, this might look like:
- Regular check-ups with your cancer doctor.
- Taking any prescribed medicines.
- Diet and lifestyle advice.
- Using herbs that support kidney health (after checking with your doctors).
- Yoga is for stress relief.
The key is to ensure that all your healthcare providers know what you’re doing. This will help avoid conflicts between treatments.
Some hospitals now offer integrative care programs. These can unite specialists and nutritionists.
Keep in mind that what works best is different for everybody. Finding the right mix might take some time. Be patient with yourself as you figure it out.
Wrapping Up
Facing everyday life after kidney cancer is another journey. In any case, it is also a chance for a new life. You can continue with a healthy start by managing your kidneys, going to ordinary check-ups, and loving yourself.
Remember these key points:
- Get your kidney checked regularly.
- Go to all your follow-up appointments.
- To maintain kidney health, eat well and exercise regularly.
- Take care of your mental health as well.
- Think about blending ancient and conventional care
You’ve already shown how strong you are by beating cancer. Now, use that strength to live your best life. You’ve got this!
Also Read: Invasive Lobular Carcinoma