Managing Winter Risks and Staying Strong for Cancer Patients
By:Dr Raghav Kesri, Senior Consultant and Head Medical Oncology, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Cancer treatment can be a challenging journey for patients, and the winter months often add an extra layer of difficulty. The drop in temperatures and the onset of seasonal illnesses pose unique risks for individuals undergoing cancer treatment or recovering from it. Understanding how cold weather affects cancer patients and taking appropriate precautions is essential for managing health during this season.
Cold Weather and Its Effect on Cancer Patients
The colder months can significantly affect the overall well-being of cancer patients. One of the primary concerns is weakened immunity. Many cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to seasonal infections like the flu and pneumonia. Exposure to extreme cold can also lead to complications like frostbite and hypothermia, especially for those with reduced circulation due to treatment side effects.
Cancer survivors often experience joint pain and stiffness as a result of treatment-induced inflammation or side effects like peripheral neuropathy. Cold temperatures tend to exacerbate these conditions, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. Additionally, reduced exposure to sunlight during winter may cause a drop in vitamin D levels, which are essential for immune function and bone health.
Managing Risks During the Winter
To navigate the challenges posed by winter, cancer patients can adopt several strategies to protect their health. Keeping the body warm is crucial. Wearing multiple layers of clothing, using heating devices indoors, and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold weather can help prevent complications like frostbite and hypothermia.
Maintaining a strong immune system is vital during this time. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods can help boost immunity. Incorporating foods fortified with vitamin D or taking supplements, as prescribed by a doctor, can address seasonal deficiencies.
Preventing infections is another critical step. Cancer patients should prioritize hygiene by washing their hands regularly, avoiding crowded spaces, and staying up-to-date with seasonal vaccinations, such as flu shots. Staying hydrated and using humidifiers can also help combat dry air, which can irritate respiratory passages and skin.
Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being
The colder months, combined with the physical toll of cancer treatment, can also affect mental health. Seasonal affective disorder, characterized by feelings of depression during winter, can exacerbate the emotional challenges that many cancer patients face. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as indoor yoga or light exercises, can help improve mood and circulation. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and counselling can also provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Road to Recovery
For cancer patients, managing the effects of cold weather requires a proactive approach. Taking steps to stay warm, maintain immunity, and prioritize mental health can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. It is equally important to stay in close communication with healthcare providers, who can offer tailored advice and interventions to address individual risks during the winter months.
While winter poses unique challenges, it is also an opportunity to focus on self-care and resilience. With the right precautions, cancer patients can navigate the season safely and continue their journey toward recovery.
Timely Surgical Intervention is Key to Stroke Recovery
Dr Sumit Goyal Neurosurgeon and Group Director Neurointerventionist, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing in India, particularly with the rise in risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles. When a stroke occurs, every second counts.
Immediate medical intervention can make the difference between a full recovery and long-term disability. While medical management is crucial, in some cases, advanced treatment options like neurosurgery become necessary to effectively address the condition and improve the patient’s chances of recovery.
The Role of Neurosurgery in Stroke Treatment
Neurosurgery plays a critical role in the management of certain types of strokes. In ischemic strokes, where a blood clot obstructs the flow of blood to the brain, surgical intervention such as thrombectomy can be used to remove the clot and restore blood flow. This procedure must be performed within a few hours of the onset of stroke symptoms to maximize its effectiveness.
In cases of haemorrhagic stroke, surgical intervention is often required to remove blood accumulated within the brain, reducing pressure and preventing further injury. Aneurysm coiling, a minimally invasive procedure, is frequently used to treat brain aneurysms by stabilizing them, reducing the risk of rupture. Additionally, neurosurgeons may repair damaged blood vessels to stop any further bleeding, decreasing the chance of subsequent strokes.
Minimizing Complications and Enhancing Recovery
In addition to emergency neurosurgery, the management of stroke patients often involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes neurocritical care, rehabilitation, and long-term follow-up. Preventing complications such as infections, blood clots, or further strokes is crucial. Post-surgery, patients require intensive care to monitor brain function, maintain adequate oxygen levels, and ensure proper nutrition.
Rehabilitation also plays a significant role in a patient’s recovery. Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy can help stroke survivors regain lost functions, improve mobility, and manage daily activities independently.
Prevention and Awareness
The best approach to stroke management is prevention. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, controlling blood pressure, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. Regular health check-ups and early detection of risk factors like high cholesterol or atrial fibrillation can also help prevent stroke.
In regions with high stroke prevalence, public awareness campaigns are essential to educate the population about stroke symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of timely medical intervention. The quicker the treatment, the better the chances of minimizing brain damage and achieving a successful recovery.
Road to Recovery
Neurosurgery, in combination with other medical and rehabilitation treatments, is instrumental in improving outcomes for stroke patients. The ability to restore blood flow, remove blood clots, and relieve pressure on the brain provides patients with a higher chance of surviving the stroke and regaining lost functions.