Dealing with breast cancer can be emotionally and physically draining. Once you have successfully beaten it, there is a new chapter in your life that requires attention.

Maintaining your breasts is crucial to avoid complications, and ensure a healthy lifestyle. In this article, we will elaborate on various ways to maintain your breasts and enjoy a fulfilling life after breast cancer.

Perform Regular Breast Exam

Regular medical check-ups are necessary to ensure that your breasts are healthy. You can monitor your breasts by providing self-breast examinations.

Though you might be scared to get routine check-ups, it is crucial to overcome your fear and schedule regular exams with your doctor. Any signs of possible complications should be reported immediately, and a biopsy will follow to ensure that everything is alright.

Take Proper Medication

After your cancer treatments, your doctor may prescript medication to slow down the growth of estrogen receptors. The medication is necessary to avoid a recurrence of cancer, and it should be taken regularly without missing any tablet.

Take every precaution indicated by your doctor, including drinking water and eating a healthy diet, to avoid any possible side effects of the medication.

Eat Healthy

Avoiding bad habits like smoking and drinking alcohol will help you maintain healthy breasts. The food you eat is also significant.

A balanced diet should be a priority to ensure that your body has the necessary nutrients needed to maintain healthy breasts. Food rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins will help in maintaining overall health in your body including your breasts.

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise is essential for general body health and especially important to maintain healthy and active breasts. Participating sports activities, jogging, swimming, and other enjoyable pastimes could help keep you active.

Exercise will also keep your body weight in check, which may otherwise lead to sudden weight gain that can cause stress on your breasts.

Protect Your Breasts From Sun And Radiation

Prolonged exposure to the sun or radiations, especially during your cancer treatment, should be avoided. Your body is still sensitive after cancer treatments, and exposure to direct sunlight or radiations can be harmful.

Try wearing protective clothing that can cover your body, and avoid the sun as much as possible. Always use sunscreen with 30 SPF and above and reapply it every two hours if you are out in the sun.

Be Cautious When Getting Breast Procedures

If you are planning to have any breast procedures done, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before undergoing the procedure.

Check the credentials of the surgeon, and ensure that you understand the full scope of the procedure before committing to it. In most cases, unnecessary surgeries may lead to complications or affect the appearance of your breasts, so be cautious when choosing procedures.

Discuss Hormone Replacement Therapy With Your Doctor

If you are experiencing significant menopausal symptoms, your doctor might recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It’s crucial to talk to your doctor before using HRT, as it may increase the possibility of cancer recurrence.

However, in some instances, HRT is necessary to alleviate symptoms and make life more comfortable. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations, and don’t stop the therapy without consulting your doctor.

Join A Support Group

The emotional stress and fatigue that comes with cancer treatments can be overwhelming. Joining a support group may help you navigate through and manage your feelings.

A support group comprises people who have gone through similar experiences, and expressing your fears and doubts with them will be comforting. You will hear other people’s stories, receive encouragement and build new relationships.

Always Keep Your Doctor Informed

Even after your cancer treatments, always keep your doctor informed about your breast health. Regular check-ups are necessary to note any changes in your breasts, which could be indicative of any possible complications.

If anything unusual is found, your doctor can plan a follow-up biopsy to determine the cause of the changes.

Conclusion

Maintaining your breasts is of paramount importance for an improved and healthy life after breast cancer.

Ensuring regular check-ups, taking medication as prescribed by your doctor, eating a healthy diet, and keeping physically active will help you maintain healthy breasts. Protecting your breasts from harmful radiations, being conscious of breast procedures, and staying in touch with your doctor are preventative steps that will help reduce complications.

Joining a support group may also lend emotional support for a healthy mind in the aftermath of breast cancer.