Your Exercise Program The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity at least five days per week. With steady exercise or activity, you help reduce your risk for cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. A moderate exercise plan may include walking, bicycling, swimming, yoga or stretching. As you exercise, stop and rest if you feel dizzy, pain or shortness of breath. If you do feel any effects, be sure to share them with your health care team.
Keeping Yourself Healthy
Exercise Precautions Some survivors may experience lingering side effects from treatment. In some cases, ongoing problems do affect the style and duration of exercise. You may even need to avoid certain environments altogether.
• Drink plenty of water.
Anemia
Neuropathy
If you have severe anemia, it’s best to delay an exercise program until your anemia improves.
If you are experiencing arm and leg nerve problems or balance issues, you may have problems exercising. If balance is problematic or you lack limb strength, consider stable exercise options such as stationary recumbent cycling.
• Sleep at least eight hours every night.
Bladder Catheters If you have an indwelling (bladder) catheter, you can lower your risk of infection by avoiding water or other microbial exposures. You should also avoid resistance training in the area to prevent dislodgement of your catheter.
Compromised Immune System Public gyms and other crowded locations can be dangerous for anyone with a low white blood cell count. Avoid exposure until your white blood cell count improves. If you receive a stem cell transplant, you should avoid crowded places for one year. Talk to your physician about exercises that you can do on your own.
Severe Fatigue If you’re not ready for exercise, you can stretch. Ten minutes of daily stretching exercises can help you boost your energy levels and get you started on the path toward daily exercise.
• As you feel able, begin a regular exercise program.
• If you smoke, talk to your health care team about quitting. • Make sure you keep all of your appointments and have regular checkups after you finish treatment. • Maintain a healthy weight. • Follow your health care professional’s directions for taking your medication. • Find time to relax. • Build strong relationships with others to help you stay emotionally and mentally healthy.
© 2013 Lexington County Health Services District, Inc. (Rev. 9/2013)
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