It seems like every time we hear the phrase “bowel cancer survivor,” it probably conjures up images of sickly-looking people hooked up to IVs in a hospital. But guess what? After getting a colonoscopy and being diagnosed with colorectal cancer (bowel cancer), you can be a bowel cancer survivor, too, and even live a happy life. Things might not be the same as they used to be. But of course, every day is still a gift, and it’s important to make the most of it. Here’s your friendly guide on how to do just that.
Dealing With Your Emotions and What to Expect
First of all, it’s pretty common that having a diagnosis of colorectal cancer does come with some emotional difficulties. It can be difficult to process and accept the fact that you have cancer, especially if it comes as a surprise. You may find yourself feeling depressed or anxious over your diagnosis, which is perfectly normal. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you find yourself struggling emotionally. That’s why support groups and counseling can be great resources to help you manage your emotions.
Recovering From Your Surgery
If you’ve been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and had surgery to remove it, you’re probably wondering what comes next. This can be a scary time, so knowing what to expect is important. You’ll most likely have to follow up with your doctor regularly for check-ups and scans. In addition, the surgical team may recommend that you start exercising and/or eating a diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fat. Eating well can help you recover from your surgery faster and lower your risk of recurrence. Additionally, be sure to take it easy for the first few weeks after the surgery — don’t overdo it.
Managing the Side Effects of Treatment
It’s also highly advisable to understand that certain treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can come with side effects. Some of the more common side effects include fatigue, nausea, dry skin, and hair loss. In addition, you may experience changes in your appetite or taste buds. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about these side effects so they can help you manage them. For example, medications can help alleviate some of the side effects.
Living With a Stoma
In most cases, having a colostomy bag (or stoma) will be necessary after surgery. A stoma is an artificial opening in your abdomen that allows waste to pass out of the body into a pouch attached to the outside of your skin. It can take some time to get used to living with a stoma, but there are ways you can make this transition easier. For one, make sure you’re wearing the right kind of pouch for your situation, and practice changing it often to get comfortable with the process. Stoma nurses can also provide invaluable support in terms of advice and emotional comfort.
Living with a diagnosis of colorectal cancer doesn’t have to be a depressing experience. With the right knowledge, tools, and support, you can still enjoy living your life even after a diagnosis. After all, being a bowel cancer survivor is something to be proud of. So don’t let your diagnosis define who you are — instead, use it as an opportunity to make positive changes in your life and live your best life possible.
