Don't Relax Just Yet After Radiotherapy: Here's Your Essential "Post-Course" Care Guide!

Don't Relax Just Yet After Radiotherapy: Here's Your Essential "Post-Course" Care Guide!

Dear readers, radiotherapy is a crucial battle in overcoming disease, but the body's recovery equally requires careful attention. Just like a "cool-down" after a long run, scientific care following radiotherapy is essential. It helps the body recover more effectively and alleviates discomfort.

Here is a simple and practical set of home care tips for after radiotherapy.

​​Skin Care — Gentle Treatment for the Treated Area​​

The skin in the radiotherapy area is like a mild sunburn and needs special care.

• ​​Cleansing​​: Gently rinse using lukewarm water and a soft towel, avoiding friction. Use a mild, non-irritating soap or plain water is sufficient.

•​​ Moisturizing​​: If the skin is intact and unbroken, you can apply a non-irritating moisturizer recommended by your doctor (such as pure petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel) to keep the skin moist.

• ​​Protection​​: Avoid scratching; keep fingernails short to prevent breaking the skin. Wear loose, soft cotton clothing to reduce friction. Practice strict sun protection; cover the treated area with clothing or a sun umbrella when outdoors, and avoid direct sunlight.

•​​ Avoid​​: Do not use hot water bottles, ice packs, or arbitrarily apply ointments, alcohol, or adhesive tape to the treated area.

​Nutritional Support — Fueling Recovery​​

The body needs adequate "fuel" for repair. Follow the "Three Highs and One Abundant" principle in your diet.

•​​ High Protein​​: Eat more fish, shrimp, lean meats, eggs, milk, and soy products to promote cell repair.

•​​ High Vitamins​​: Increase intake of fresh vegetables and fruits to boost immunity.

•​​ ​​High Calories​​: Ensure adequate staple food intake to provide sufficient energy for the body.

•​​ Abundant Fluids​​: Ensure adequate water intake. If dry mouth is noticeable, keep warm water handy, or try sucking on sugar-free hard candies or chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.

Tips​​: Eat small, frequent meals. Keep flavors light and avoid spicy, fried, and other irritating foods.

​​Fatigue Management — Listen to Your Body​​

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects after radiotherapy. Please don't push yourself too hard.

• ​​Ensure Rest​​: Schedule sufficient sleep each night. A short 20-30 minute nap at noon can be beneficial.

•​​ Act Within Your Means​​: Do what you can, avoiding heavy physical labor. Rest immediately when feeling tired.

• ​​Gentle Exercise​​: When energy allows, engage in gentle activities like walking or Tai Chi, which can help restore energy. Remember to pace yourself and increase activity gradually.

Daily Life Details — Attention Needed Everywhere​​

•​​ Regular follow-up examinations are the top priority!​​ Be sure to return to the hospital for check-ups strictly according to the time instructed by your doctor. This is key to monitoring recovery and identifying problems promptly.

•​​ Monitor Symptom Changes​​: Contact your primary doctor promptly if you experience persistent fever, increased pain, skin ulceration or discharge in the treated area, or rapid weight loss.

• ​​Maintain a Positive Mindset​​: The road to recovery takes time and patience. Communicate more with family and friends, do things that make you happy. A positive attitude is the best "medicine" .

The core of post-radiotherapy care lies in "patience" and "attentiveness".

Gently care for your skin, strengthen nutritional support, arrange rest properly, and cooperate closely with your doctor. Please give your body some time; it will gradually regain its vitality.

Preliminary Review: Zhang Lihong

 Final Review: Zhang Jie