• Be in the know about symptoms. Maintaining open communication with your oncologist regarding any symptoms you should be vigilant about and report promptly is always essential. Whenever something causes concern, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your oncologist. It’s necessary to remember that sometimes an ache is simply that—an ache—and not necessarily a cause for alarm. Your healthcare provider can help provide reassurance and guidance in such situations.
• Take steps to minimise scanxiety. To help reduce waiting time, it’s recommended to try scheduling your scans early in the day. Additionally, arranging for support before your scan, such as reliable individuals, can be beneficial.
• Do your best to accept uncertainty. Understandably, the uncertainty of cancer recurrence can be emotionally challenging. While no one can guarantee it won’t return, focusing on the present is essential rather than worrying about an uncertain future.
• Focus on wellness. Rather than expending your energy on worrying, it is advisable to redirect it towards maintaining your overall well-being. A valuable step is to explore the guidance of a registered dietitian specialising in creating healthy diets for cancer patients. They can provide personalised nutrition advice that can contribute to your overall health.
  • Remaining physically active to the best of your ability is also recommended, as exercise has been known to enhance mood.
  • Additionally, if you are a smoker, it may be beneficial to consider quitting.
• Take charge of what you can. Ensuring consistent follow-up care for cancer is crucial, so it’s essential to prioritise attending all scheduled visits and undergoing the recommended tests as advised by your oncologist. By faithfully adhering to your follow-up plan, you are actively taking steps to monitor your health and address any potential concerns that may arise.
• Write down your worries. Creating a list of your concerns can be helpful by jotting them down on paper or using your smartphone. Bringing this list to your next doctor’s visit allows you to address each concern directly with your healthcare provider.
• Create a ‘worry time’. Setting aside dedicated time daily to address and process your worries can effectively manage anxiety. Choosing a consistent place and time for this designated period is beneficial, ensuring it’s not too close to bedtime to avoid interfering with your sleep.

(Fix Chase Cancer Center, 2018)

This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.