Pre-Prostate Cancer Surgery Tips for Self Care
Prostate cancer surgery can prevent cancerous cells from spreading to other parts of your body. If a surgeon recommends undergoing the procedure, they usually believe it has a reasonable chance of making your cancer less severe. They'll provide you with lots of information about the operation and what to expect. However, there are some self-care measures you can take to hasten your recovery and reduce the risk of side effects.
Protect Your Breathing
As with other operations, prostate cancer surgery increases your risk of developing a clot. This is because tissues such as fat and collagen can enter your bloodstream and make your blood thicken. You may also move around less following the operation, which increases your clot risk further. Your surgeons will likely provide you with blood thinners to reduce your risk of clotting. However, you can help yourself with breathing exercises too. Practising deep breathing helps to promote better blood flow and healing. It can also reduce your risk of pneumonia following your operation. By getting used to deep breathing now, you'll find it easier to try after your surgery.
Try Leg Exercises
The medical team overseeing your care may also suggest leg exercises. Your natural reaction following your prostate surgery may be to remain in bed. While staying in bed is comfier than moving around, moving around is essential for healing. Alongside reducing your risk of clots, leg exercises can strengthen the muscles your surgeon cuts through. They'll also encourage you to get up and walk around as soon as possible. If you're not usually someone who enjoys walking, try finding some music to listen to. By adding it to your walking routine before your surgery, you may find it easier to take short walks after your operation.
Make Healthy Changes
Your body will do everything it can to heal following your surgery. It has a range of resources to draw on, but there are ways you can make those resources stronger. For example, if you currently smoke or vape, quitting gives your lungs a chance to deliver oxygen in an efficient manner. Or, if you're aware that you don't drink enough water, increasing the amount you drink provides your body with the fluids it needs to heal your muscles and support your organs. By performing a personal health review and making tweaks, you can prepare your body for surgery. If you're not sure where to start, speak with the medical team leading your care and they can give you personalised tips.
Speak to a medical centre to learn more about prostate cancer surgery.
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