COVID-19 Lockdown: Expert Tips for Cancer Patients to Boost Immunity

For cancer patients, COVID-19 or the novel coronavirus pandemic has brought in new challenges. Why? Because according to researchers and cancer doctors worldwide, some cancer patients are more susceptible to contracting the virus because of immunosuppression caused by cancer treatments, and some cancer patients might even experience some of the worse symptoms of the virus if contracted. So, the goal is to minimize the risk of contracting the novel coronavirus and battling the infection efficiently if contracted.

However, a question remains. How to exactly do that?

If you asked some of the coronavirus researchers, they would tell you one thing: It all depends on your immunity. But, there is NO magic pill to boost immunity, especially for cancer patients. However, there are ways. That is what we will discuss in this blog.

Tips for cancer patients to boost immunity

1.    DO NOT skip on your regular medications

Your regular medications help your body function optimally. “Optimal” is a good word here. There is a certain pre-decided way for your body to function so that you can lead a healthy life. For cancer patients going through treatment, it might seem like an oxymoron, but trust us, it isn’t. If cancer patients keep with their regular medications along with their cancer treatment plan, chances are their immune system will be as good as it can be.

2.    Eat Healthy

Time and again, we have discussed how food and nutrients affect our health and immune system. These ARE the only magic pills that work on boosting immunity. Cancer patients, in consultation with a good cancer doctor, should eat a well balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Tomatoes, carrots, pumpkin, and green leafy vegetables are plush with iron and calcium. You also need vitamin C to hike your immunity; so, banana, kiwi, oranges, pear, and peaches should be your daily friends. Ginger, garlic, turmeric, and mint are some of the herbs that also help boost immunity. So, keep them in your diet. Don’t forget to hydrate.

3.    Exercise Regularly

If you asked a cancer specialist in Delhi or anywhere in the world, they would tell you that even in these times, putting in some time for exercise is very important to keep your body fit and your immune system charged to handle such viruses better. But, the best cancer doctors in Delhi suggest cancer patients exercise indoors. Keep active at home. Also, don’t forget to consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine & if you need a second opinion or a second set of eyes on your progress, you can always consult an experienced oncologist like Dr. Manish Singhal, regarded as the best oncologist in Delhi NCR.

4.    Take account of your mental health

The situation is scary, but being scared cannot help you, being anxious cannot help you. So what can you do? Meditate, practice gratitude, do regular breathing exercises to keep calm. Also, be observant, not anxious. Do not forget to contact your loved ones regularly because you need to distance yourself, not isolate. Create a daily schedule and stick to it. Spend your day productively to avoid fatigue. This applies to everybody; but, for cancer patients battling the fatigue of the condition, keeping your mind calm is extremely important because it boosts immunity.

5.    Practice Social Distancing & Hygiene

WHO has recently said that everybody NEEDS to wear masks outside. So, you should definitely minimize your visits outside; but, if you need to go out, always wear your mask. If you or your family members are sick, practice hand hygiene, keep away from people, and do not slide your mask down. Always sneeze into the crook of your elbow and wash it or sanitize, or you can sneeze into a tissue and dispose of them. Do not touch your face, mouth, or nose without washing your hands. Keep your home and surroundings clean and disinfected. Maintain social distancing at all times.

Remember one thing; according to some of the best oncologists worldwide, cancer patients should never overload your immune system. If it is weakened due to cancer treatment, keep it energized.

The final recommendation

Whether you are under cancer treatment, in remission, or a cancer survivor, the rules might be a little bit stricter for you, but, with the right kind of help and support, you will come out of this pandemic as well. So, your best bet is to trust your oncologist. However, if you need a new perspective or a little extra help, it is best if you consult an oncologist who keeps himself/herself updated and is experienced to handle difficult cancer cases; for Delhi residents, that is Dr. Manish Singhal.

ALSO READ: Advisory for Cancer Patients during COVID Pandemic