Lung Cancer Self-Care Strategies for Veterans
Living with lung cancer requires prioritizing lung cancer self-care to improve both treatment outcomes and overall well-being. Focusing on mental and physical health during this difficult time gives veterans the strength to navigate the emotional and physical demands of treatment.
5 Lung Cancer Self Care Tips During Lung Cancer Treatment
For those living with lung cancer, it is incredibly important to set aside time for lung cancer self-care, as it improves your treatment outcomes and well-being. Facing a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming, especially for veterans living with lung cancer. While every veteran’s experience is different, some spent years in physically demanding roles or now suffer from mental health illnesses such as PTSD.
Adding a mesothelioma or lung cancer diagnosis on top of your existing health issues can lead to feelings of fear, helplessness, and shock, so prioritizing your mental health will help you with the emotional and physical demands of cancer treatments. We’ve gathered some lung cancer self-care techniques to strengthen your mental and physical health during this demanding time.
1) Quit Smoking or Avoid Secondhand Smoke
One of the most important lung cancer self-care tips is to quit smoking and create a smoke-free environment. If you smoke, quitting will allow your body to start to repair itself, prevent your lungs from further harm, and reduce the risk of complications or infections arising. Secondhand smoke can be just as harmful as smoking and will interfere with your recovery progress. It’s important to live in a smoke-free environment during your treatment at a cancer center so your body can focus on recovering. If you’re facing difficulties quitting, there are resources available. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, as quitting can be difficult.
Quitting smoking is vital for improving lung health and supporting recovery during lung cancer treatment, as it allows the body to repair itself, prevents further lung damage, and reduces complications. Veterans can access resources like Quit VET (1-855-QUIT-VET), a free counseling hotline, SmokefreeVET, a text support program (text VET to 47848), and the Stay Quit Coach app for managing cravings and tracking progress. These, combined with VA counseling, support groups, and FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapies, help veterans create personalized quit plans, manage triggers, and stay motivated. By leveraging these tools, veterans can establish a smoke-free environment, which is important for recovery and overall well-being.
2) Maintain a Healthy and Balanced Diet
Chemotherapy and other cancer drugs can cause you to feel nauseous and lose your appetite, so you should choose foods that are easy on your stomach. The right foods can boost your immune system and help you fight treatment side effects. A well-balanced diet affects how you feel during and after treatment, reduces fatigue, and protects your body from infections. An example of a healthy lung cancer self-care diet includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A well-balanced diet will give your body the vitamins, nutrients, and minerals needed to stay strong during treatment.
Creating a well-balanced diet can be difficult, so many people seek advice from nutritionists or dietitians. The VA offers individualized nutrition counseling to help you create a well-balanced diet that improves your side effects, treatment, and recovery. If you are struggling to develop a well-balanced diet or are experiencing side effects that make it difficult to eat, reach out for resources on VA services that can help you get the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients your body needs.
3) Stay Physically Active to Support Your Body
It can be challenging to stay active during and in between cancer treatments. However, physical activity is one of the best lung cancer self-care techniques you can do to boost your overall well-being. Regular exercise can significantly reduce fatigue, improve your mood, and make a difference in how you feel. Adding light daily activities such as a 10-15 minute walk can help improve your lung function, boost energy, and help you feel physically and emotionally balanced. Other light activities include stretching or seated exercises to improve flexibility, reduce muscle stiffness, and lower stress. For veterans suffering from lung cancer, the VA offers programs to help you find what daily activities fit into your routine. These programs include access to fitness classes, personalized support, and lung cancer home treatment options.
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4) Utilize Support Systems for Emotional and Psychological Well-Being
For veterans, the emotional burden of a lung cancer diagnosis adds to already stressful past experiences, such as the physical toll of service, PTSD, or transitioning back to civilian life. Prioritizing your mental health can make a big difference in your overall well-being and give you the strength you need to face the challenges of lung cancer. Another lung cancer self-care technique is seeking help and support from friends and family, counseling, or therapy. Mental health professionals and cancer support services can help you manage the emotional impact of lung cancer.
VA support groups are also available for veterans and their families. Talking to others experiencing the same challenges as you can give you a sense of community. Veterans support groups give you a safe place to share your experiences, learn coping strategies, and help others facing similar challenges. The VA offers individual and group counseling services so you can receive the emotional support you deserve.
5) Coordinate Your Lung Cancer Self Care with the VA
Managing a lung cancer diagnosis involves clear communication and a proactive approach to staying organized. Start by meeting with your healthcare provider to discuss your diagnosis, treatment options, and care plan in detail. Keep track of appointments, follow-ups, and tests using a calendar or VA-provided tools to reduce overwhelm and ensure nothing is missed. Prepare questions or concerns before each appointment to help clarify your care plan and understand the next steps.
Leverage the VA’s support services to simplify the process. Patient navigators or case managers can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating transportation, and managing communication between specialists. Build a strong support network by connecting with VA counselors, peer groups, or trusted loved ones who can offer emotional and practical support. By staying organized, asking questions, and using available resources, you can confidently navigate your care journey and feel supported every step of the way.
What to Do If You Need Help Managing Your Lung Cancer Self Care
A lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for veterans and their families. Focusing on your mental health can significantly improve your quality of life. The right lung cancer self-care techniques can positively impact veterans’ physical and emotional well-being during treatments. Adding some lung cancer self-care techniques can help you combat any potential challenges you may face during treatment, such as fatigue, nausea, weight changes, and a weakened immune system. The VA offers services to support you and your family during cancer treatments. Legal options are available to help you navigate your VA benefits, employment, and disability claims. Don’t hesitate to reach out today, as our patient advocates can connect you to the professional advice, emotional support, and resources you need so you can focus on your recovery while receiving the support you’re entitled to.