Note on exercise after esophageal cancer surgery

Regular exercise during the recovery period after esophageal cancer surgery can speed up metabolism, make body cells more active, and relax your mood. But you must be careful to do it within your ability. So what should you pay attention to when exercising after esophageal cancer surgery? I believe everyone wants to know the answer, so let the experts introduce it to us.

Postoperative activities are divided into bed activities and out-of-bed activities. The first two days after surgery are mainly bed activities, including sitting up, patting the back, upper and lower limb activities, etc. During activities, care should be taken to protect various tubes such as infusions to prevent them from falling off, and to keep the tubes unobstructed.

Patients can get out of bed and move around on the third day after surgery, which can not only increase lung capacity, keep the trachea open, and reduce lung complications, but also promote blood circulation, prevent the formation of venous thrombosis, and promote the recovery of gastrointestinal function. Patients' concerns should be eliminated, as early activities will not affect wound healing, let alone cause wound dehiscence.

There are many benefits to getting out of bed and moving around early after esophageal cancer surgery. It can not only improve respiratory and circulatory functions and prevent complications such as lung infection, atelectasis and thrombosis, but also increase appetite and restore gastrointestinal function as soon as possible.

Be sure to take protective measures in advance when doing activities, such as fixing various tubes on the body. If you have symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath, etc., go to bed and rest in time. If the symptoms are serious, notify medical staff as soon as possible. In the first three days after surgery, patients can stand by the bed, step on the spot, and walk around the bed with the help of others, and then gradually increase the range and amount of activities. Patients should not engage in high-intensity exercise in the short term after discharge, such as playing ball, swimming, and mountain climbing. They should start with slow dancing, walking, Tai Chi, etc., and gradually increase the amount of exercise. It should be done step by step, depending on the individual's physical recovery.

During the recovery period of esophageal cancer, patients should be advised to quit smoking and drinking, engage in appropriate activities, pay attention to the formulation of nutritious diet, avoid eating highly irritating foods, pay attention to maintaining oral hygiene, rinse the mouth after meals, and pay attention to regular check-ups.