Lifestyle Changes to Manage Prostate Cancer
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By adopting certain lifestyle habits, you can help speed your recovery from prostate cancer.
General Guidelines
Rest When Tired
Radiation therapy and hormonal therapy can add to the fatigue you already feel from fighting cancer. It is important to allow your body to rest. This will help your body have the strength to heal itself.
Do Not Smoke
Smoking exposes your body to many cancer-causing chemicals. Some data shows that smoking makes your tumor less responsive to the effects of radiation. If you smoke, quit .
Eat a Balanced Diet
Good nutrition is essential for health and well-being. To aid in your recovery, make sure you are getting all the nutrients that your body needs for healing. Try to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables , whole grains , and high-fiber foods .
Exercise Once You Are Well
Once you are feeling better and have been given the okay by your doctor, start a moderate stretching and exercise program . This will help you have more energy throughout the day.
When to Contact Your Doctor
If you feel extreme fatigue or severe pain, talk with your doctor. It is important to know your limits when you are recovering from cancer.
References
Detailed guide: prostate cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/ . Accessed October 9, 2008.
Prostate cancer. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/prostate . Accessed October 9, 2008.
Last reviewed June 2008 by Igor Puzanov, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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