What helped most after surgery?

Hi

Although I only had radiotherapy treatment for my lung cancer, I also had breast cancer treatment with surgery and radiotherapy.  From what I have heard from others who have had lung cancer surgery, both breast and lung surgery are really not that dissimilar as they are in roughly the same area, albeit the lung is deeper in the body.

I remember after the breast surgery having to sleep almost upright with a pillow under my arm because of all the stitches in my armpit as well as across my chest.  Those V-shaped pillows are a must. 

As with most major surgeries, rest is most important.  Our bodies heal so much better with rest, and plenty of it.  Also, the importance of healthy foods. Foods high in Vitamin C are important, Vitamin C helps wound healing and also supports the immune system, also protein rich food to help build back strength.

Your family member will be given exercise routines and guidance on exercise and recovery upon discharge from the nursing team soon after surgery.  

I'm sure you won't have to wait too long for someone who has been through the surgical side of lung cancer treatment to reply with their advice for your family member.

Best wishes, Ann

Thanks Ann, your reply really means a lot. I had assumed the surgery would be quite different, but you're right, in many ways recovery is probably very similar! I'll get one of those pillows - after my breast surgery I just slept on my back but had read that lying flat was tricky after lung surgery. 

Sounds like you've taken it all in your stride, which gives me hope - I'm currently dealing with late radiotherapy side effects, but am hopeful that surgery will be all my family member needs in terms of treatment.

Best wishes, and thank you for your advice.