After Cancer
Self-Care After Cancer
During treatment, just getting through each day can take all of the energy you have, making it hard to think about anything else, especially life after treatment. After treatments are over, many people experience mixed emotions of being glad it’s over, yet anxious about what the future may hold. This may be an unexpectedly challenging period of adjustment, so be sensitive to your own needs. Don’t expect to always feel good now that you’re out of treatment, and take the time you need to come to terms with what you have been through.
I’m Living Proof – Surviving Melanoma
The term ‘survivor’ can mean different things to different people. For some, a survivor may have completed active treatment and is free from any signs of melanoma. For others, the term may refer to anyone who has been diagnosed with melanoma.
Save Your Skin Foundation wishes to bring hope and support to all those newly diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, or to those “in remission” or referred to as “NED” – with no evidence of disease. This website focuses on those individuals that have generally completed active treatment and that are in remission or on maintenance therapy; however, we invite all melanoma patients, at any stage, to get in touch.
We have compiled a list of resources created to support individuals after diagnosis:
HAND IN HAND, WE FIGHT SKIN CANCER TOGETHER.
Follow Up Medical Care
Melanoma survivors should all receive regular medical checkups that include a review of a patient’s medical history and a physical exam. It is important to be aware of any changes in your health or any issues that may occur due to cancer treatments. These regular appointments are also opportunities to check for physical and emotional repercussions that may develop months or years after treatment ends.
Knowing what to expect after melanoma treatments can help you and your caregivers to make lifestyle changes and other important decisions about the future.
Related resources:
-
What can I do?No cancer, including melanomas, can ever be prevented with 100% certainty. The good news with melanomas is that the risk factors are well known, so steps can be taken to dramatically reduce your risk of developing this deadly disease. Always have sunscreen with you so you can apply it whenever an unplanned outdoor activity arises Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever you are outdoors (even on grayer days) Wear protective clothing with long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses Wear sun safety apparel for added protection Check for changes in moles, new moles and see your doctor immediately if anything is suspicious Limit sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm Do not use tanning beds
-
Suggested Safety GuidelinesFor outdoor labour occurring on sunny days, especially between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., workers are encouraged to: ● Work in shaded areas when able ● Wear full-body coverage clothing, including: full-brimmed hats, long-sleeve shirts and full-length pants made of tightly woven fabric that is lightweight ● Wear sun safety apparel for added protection ● Wear full-spectrum sunglasses that protect from UVA and UVB rays ● Apply SPF of 30+ at least twenty minutes before going outside ● Use lip balm that has a SPF of at least 15 Sun protection training and materials should be provided to staff, encouraging them to practice sun safety both on the job and engaging in outdoor pastimes. These guidelines should be communicated and reinforced to employees through verbal reminders, posters, signs, pamphlets, notice, payroll stuffers, newsletters, and meetings.
-
What is SPF?What does a sunscreen’s “SPF” rating mean? All sunscreens have a sun protection factor (SPF) on their labels. SPF is a measure of the amount of UV radiation that can reach the skin with sunscreen compared with no sunscreen. For example: SPF 15 filters out approximately 93 percent of all incoming UVB rays. SPF 30 keeps out 97 percent and SPF 50 keeps out 98 percent. No sunscreen can block all UV rays. Broad spectrum sunscreen provides protection from both UVB and UVA rays. In Canada, regulations depict sunscreen labeling for broad spectrum; look for labels that use the words “Broad Spectrum” and show an image of UVA with a circle around it +UVB.
-
Sun Safety and InfantsKeeping infants and young children out of the sun as much as possible is very important during the first year of a child’s life. There are links between intermittent and intense sun exposure (resulting in burns) in adolescence and the development of skin cancers later in life (“Canadian Cancer Society’s Advisory Committee on Cancer Statistics (2014).Canadian Cancer Statistics 2014. pp. 87.), and skin cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canadian youth from 15-35 years old (Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation, “About Skin Cancer”). Regular use of sunscreen with an SPF of 15+ during the first 18 years of life can tremendously reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, before the age of three, sunscreen does not provide adequate protection for developing skin and the best protection is to keep sun exposure to a minimum. Even a suntan is harmful to children, as tanning is an outward sign of internal skin damage.
-
First Aid for SunburnsOverexposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause sunburns. Mild sunburns can be treated, however severe sunburns require medical attention. Here is some advice for treating a mild sunburn: ● Avoid creams or lotions that may hold heat inside the skin or may contain numbing medication (i.e. Benzocaine or lidocaine) ● Use of Aloe Vera ● Do not wash burned skin with harsh soap ● For pain relief, you may use ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed ● Do not give aspirin to children ● Cover all sunburned areas In the case of a severe sunburn, seek medical attention. Symptoms include: ● Sunburn that forms blisters or is extremely painful ● Facial swelling ● Nausea, fever or severe chills ● Pale or cool skin ● Rapid pulse or rapid breathing ● Headache, confusion or a feeling of faintness or dizziness ● Signs of dehydration (increased thirst, dry eyes and mouth, no urine output) ● Signs of skin infection (increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling, or pus) ● Eyes that hurt and are sensitive to light
-
Tanning Beds & LampsTanning beds and sun lamps release UV rays that can cause sunburns, damage skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. People at tanning salons may tell you their lights are safe, but the fact is their lights may give from 10 to 15 times as much UVA as the sun. Many studies have demonstrated that the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma can increase up to 75% when tanning devices are used before the age of 35.
-
UV Rays & Your SkinWhile sunlight has health benefits, it is important to take precautions to protect ourselves from potentially harmful UV rays. During the Winter and Spring months, it is important to protect yourself while pursuing snow sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. The sun’s reflection off of snow can increase the amount of UV radiation you receive by up to 85%. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses will help protect exposed areas. It is recommended that you take the same precautions during Summer water sports. An SPF30 is the minimum protection recommended, and sunscreen should be applied twenty minutes before heading outdoors to allow for activation time. Remember to reapply every two hours, or after swimming or perspiring. When you are unsure of the UV strength on a particular day, it is useful to consult the UV index. The UV index is a simplified measurement system for the sun’s damaging rays and a guideline to protection. These are available online and as phone apps. The UV index measures as follows: ● 0-2 – Low Risk – minimal sun protection required (unless near water or snow). Wear sunglasses if bright. ● 3-5 – Moderate Risk – take precautions – wear sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, seek shade during peak hours of 11 am to 4 pm. ● 6-7 – High Risk – wear sun protective clothing, sunscreen, and seek shade. ● 8-10 – Avoid the sun – seek shade – wear sun protective clothing, sun screen & sunglasses. White sand increases UV radiation exposure. ● 11 + – Take full precautions. Unprotected skin can burn in minutes. Avoid the sun between 11 am and 4 pm, wear sunscreens & sun protective clothing.
-
The Sun & Your EyesSunglasses help to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation and bright light. Because UV rays carry more energy and are invisible, the eye is at greater risk of damage from UV rays. UVA and UVB rays can cause or speed up several diseases of the eye or its supporting structures and because they occur over a long time, they may happen surreptitiously and are irreversible. During water or snow exposure, it is important to block out blue light. Medium to dark sunglass lenses with a grey, green, or brown tint will block out most blue light. Intensive daily exposure, such as outdoor work, requires a higher level of protection from sunglasses. Daytime driving: general purpose sunglasses are considered sufficient protection during daylight driving. The industry is self-regulated and has three categories of sunglasses: ● cosmetic sunglasses with lightly tinted lenses ● general purpose sunglasses with higher protection levels of all light ● special purpose sunglasses provide the highest protection, but are too dark for driving
-
Physical VS Chemical FilterThere are many sunscreens on the market, but the most effective ones contain both UVA and UVB protection, known as broad spectrum protection. There are two different types of UV filters found in Sunscreens: Chemical filters: work by absorbing, scattering and reflecting UV radiation. These chemical filters are absorbed by the skin and work from within. This is why they must be applied 15-20 minutes before going in the sun – to give the filters time to be absorbed into your skin so that they can do their job. You will find a wide array of UVB filters used among sunscreen manufacturers, but there are fewer UVA filters available. Physical filters: work by absorbing, scattering and reflecting UV radiation. Physical filters remain on the surface of the skin and are not absorbed. Physical filters are comprised of Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide.
-
Extreme HeatAlthough Canada is not often thought as a sunny country, the reality is that many Canadian cities experience heat waves during the summer months. During heat waves, high temperatures close to 40 degrees can be reached, which can be dangerous for your health (causing illnesses like heat stroke, and even death). You need to be very careful and follow some steps to protect yourself.
Physical Changes
Even though you may have had the same melanoma diagnosis or treatment as someone else, your post-treatment experience may be quite different. Your doctor should talk to you about the long-term effects of your specific cancer treatment.
Some of the most common physical changes that people report are:
-
Fatigue
-
Memory and concentration changes
-
Pain
-
Nervous system changes
-
Lymphedema or swelling
-
Mouth and teeth problems
-
Changes in weight and eating habits
-
Trouble swallowing
-
Bladder or bowel control problems
-
Menopause symptoms
Your doctor can help you to manage and control many of these changes. Speak with your doctor at the first sign of any problems you experience.
Related resources:
Family Issues
When treatment ends, families are sometimes unprepared for the length of time recovery can take. As a survivor, you still need support and that may be difficult for family and friends to understand. Often, recovery often lasts longer than your treatment, which can lead to worry and frustration for everyone. It may also be difficult for your friends and family to understand the support you will need as a survivor.
Your post-treatment recovery, and your life as a survivor, are personal experiences that take time to figure out. Be honest with yourself and others, and don’t be afraid to ask for support. It will be helpful to both you and your loved ones to keep them informed about your cancer, and involved in your recovery.
Here are some common issues people have shared with us:
People expect you to bounce back to who you were before cancer.
The reality is, you’re likely not physically or emotionally who you were before cancer and are no longer able to do all the things you once did. You may be able to one day – but this might take months or years. It’s important to be patient and to be open and honest with others about what you can and cannot do.
You still need the support of friends and family.
This doesn’t sound like it should be an issue, but often survivors feel guilty about asking for support when they are recovering or in remission. It’s common to feel that others have already done so much and to feel guilty for asking for more help. In most cases, however, keeping loved ones involved in your recovery and your life after cancer continues to make everyone stronger.
You expect more from your loved ones than you receive.
Your family and friends may disappoint you, which can be frustrating. The attention you received during treatment may have lessened since the ending of your active treatment. Be open and honest with loved ones about how you are feeling, and ask for support and help when you need it.
Understanding the dynamics of survivorship relationships.
At the same time that you are physically and emotionally recovering from the roller coaster of melanoma, your family is also adjusting. Loved ones are still coping with the stress and changes that the cancer journey took everyone on. They too need time to understand what they went through, and what support they may need as caregivers. It may be hard for family and friends to express feelings or know how to talk about what each person went through. It’s important to ask for help from a professional if your family or friends feel they need outside support. Ask your doctor to refer you to a counselor or expert on family concerns after cancer.
Related resources:
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What can I do?No cancer, including melanomas, can ever be prevented with 100% certainty. The good news with melanomas is that the risk factors are well known, so steps can be taken to dramatically reduce your risk of developing this deadly disease. Always have sunscreen with you so you can apply it whenever an unplanned outdoor activity arises Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever you are outdoors (even on grayer days) Wear protective clothing with long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses Wear sun safety apparel for added protection Check for changes in moles, new moles and see your doctor immediately if anything is suspicious Limit sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm Do not use tanning beds
-
Suggested Safety GuidelinesFor outdoor labour occurring on sunny days, especially between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., workers are encouraged to: ● Work in shaded areas when able ● Wear full-body coverage clothing, including: full-brimmed hats, long-sleeve shirts and full-length pants made of tightly woven fabric that is lightweight ● Wear sun safety apparel for added protection ● Wear full-spectrum sunglasses that protect from UVA and UVB rays ● Apply SPF of 30+ at least twenty minutes before going outside ● Use lip balm that has a SPF of at least 15 Sun protection training and materials should be provided to staff, encouraging them to practice sun safety both on the job and engaging in outdoor pastimes. These guidelines should be communicated and reinforced to employees through verbal reminders, posters, signs, pamphlets, notice, payroll stuffers, newsletters, and meetings.
-
What is SPF?What does a sunscreen’s “SPF” rating mean? All sunscreens have a sun protection factor (SPF) on their labels. SPF is a measure of the amount of UV radiation that can reach the skin with sunscreen compared with no sunscreen. For example: SPF 15 filters out approximately 93 percent of all incoming UVB rays. SPF 30 keeps out 97 percent and SPF 50 keeps out 98 percent. No sunscreen can block all UV rays. Broad spectrum sunscreen provides protection from both UVB and UVA rays. In Canada, regulations depict sunscreen labeling for broad spectrum; look for labels that use the words “Broad Spectrum” and show an image of UVA with a circle around it +UVB.
-
Sun Safety and InfantsKeeping infants and young children out of the sun as much as possible is very important during the first year of a child’s life. There are links between intermittent and intense sun exposure (resulting in burns) in adolescence and the development of skin cancers later in life (“Canadian Cancer Society’s Advisory Committee on Cancer Statistics (2014).Canadian Cancer Statistics 2014. pp. 87.), and skin cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canadian youth from 15-35 years old (Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation, “About Skin Cancer”). Regular use of sunscreen with an SPF of 15+ during the first 18 years of life can tremendously reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, before the age of three, sunscreen does not provide adequate protection for developing skin and the best protection is to keep sun exposure to a minimum. Even a suntan is harmful to children, as tanning is an outward sign of internal skin damage.
-
First Aid for SunburnsOverexposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause sunburns. Mild sunburns can be treated, however severe sunburns require medical attention. Here is some advice for treating a mild sunburn: ● Avoid creams or lotions that may hold heat inside the skin or may contain numbing medication (i.e. Benzocaine or lidocaine) ● Use of Aloe Vera ● Do not wash burned skin with harsh soap ● For pain relief, you may use ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed ● Do not give aspirin to children ● Cover all sunburned areas In the case of a severe sunburn, seek medical attention. Symptoms include: ● Sunburn that forms blisters or is extremely painful ● Facial swelling ● Nausea, fever or severe chills ● Pale or cool skin ● Rapid pulse or rapid breathing ● Headache, confusion or a feeling of faintness or dizziness ● Signs of dehydration (increased thirst, dry eyes and mouth, no urine output) ● Signs of skin infection (increasing redness, warmth, pain, swelling, or pus) ● Eyes that hurt and are sensitive to light
-
Tanning Beds & LampsTanning beds and sun lamps release UV rays that can cause sunburns, damage skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. People at tanning salons may tell you their lights are safe, but the fact is their lights may give from 10 to 15 times as much UVA as the sun. Many studies have demonstrated that the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma can increase up to 75% when tanning devices are used before the age of 35.
-
UV Rays & Your SkinWhile sunlight has health benefits, it is important to take precautions to protect ourselves from potentially harmful UV rays. During the Winter and Spring months, it is important to protect yourself while pursuing snow sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. The sun’s reflection off of snow can increase the amount of UV radiation you receive by up to 85%. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses will help protect exposed areas. It is recommended that you take the same precautions during Summer water sports. An SPF30 is the minimum protection recommended, and sunscreen should be applied twenty minutes before heading outdoors to allow for activation time. Remember to reapply every two hours, or after swimming or perspiring. When you are unsure of the UV strength on a particular day, it is useful to consult the UV index. The UV index is a simplified measurement system for the sun’s damaging rays and a guideline to protection. These are available online and as phone apps. The UV index measures as follows: ● 0-2 – Low Risk – minimal sun protection required (unless near water or snow). Wear sunglasses if bright. ● 3-5 – Moderate Risk – take precautions – wear sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, seek shade during peak hours of 11 am to 4 pm. ● 6-7 – High Risk – wear sun protective clothing, sunscreen, and seek shade. ● 8-10 – Avoid the sun – seek shade – wear sun protective clothing, sun screen & sunglasses. White sand increases UV radiation exposure. ● 11 + – Take full precautions. Unprotected skin can burn in minutes. Avoid the sun between 11 am and 4 pm, wear sunscreens & sun protective clothing.
-
The Sun & Your EyesSunglasses help to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation and bright light. Because UV rays carry more energy and are invisible, the eye is at greater risk of damage from UV rays. UVA and UVB rays can cause or speed up several diseases of the eye or its supporting structures and because they occur over a long time, they may happen surreptitiously and are irreversible. During water or snow exposure, it is important to block out blue light. Medium to dark sunglass lenses with a grey, green, or brown tint will block out most blue light. Intensive daily exposure, such as outdoor work, requires a higher level of protection from sunglasses. Daytime driving: general purpose sunglasses are considered sufficient protection during daylight driving. The industry is self-regulated and has three categories of sunglasses: ● cosmetic sunglasses with lightly tinted lenses ● general purpose sunglasses with higher protection levels of all light ● special purpose sunglasses provide the highest protection, but are too dark for driving
-
Physical VS Chemical FilterThere are many sunscreens on the market, but the most effective ones contain both UVA and UVB protection, known as broad spectrum protection. There are two different types of UV filters found in Sunscreens: Chemical filters: work by absorbing, scattering and reflecting UV radiation. These chemical filters are absorbed by the skin and work from within. This is why they must be applied 15-20 minutes before going in the sun – to give the filters time to be absorbed into your skin so that they can do their job. You will find a wide array of UVB filters used among sunscreen manufacturers, but there are fewer UVA filters available. Physical filters: work by absorbing, scattering and reflecting UV radiation. Physical filters remain on the surface of the skin and are not absorbed. Physical filters are comprised of Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide.
-
Extreme HeatAlthough Canada is not often thought as a sunny country, the reality is that many Canadian cities experience heat waves during the summer months. During heat waves, high temperatures close to 40 degrees can be reached, which can be dangerous for your health (causing illnesses like heat stroke, and even death). You need to be very careful and follow some steps to protect yourself.
NOTE: The information on the Save Your Skin website is not intended to replace the medical advice of a doctor or healthcare provider. While we make every effort to ensure that the information on our site is as current as possible, please note that information and statistics are subject to change as new research and studies are published.