Renal cell carcinoma (RCC), also referred to as hypernephroma or renal adenocarcinoma, is the most common type of renal cancer that is predominantly found in males. The malignancy progresses at a fairly fast pace and is more likely to affect males lying in the age group of 50 to 70 years. Living with renal cell carcinoma can be quite difficult, both emotionally as well as mentally. Though cancer can be treated, it can still metastasize to other parts of the body. As time passes by, the symptoms continue to aggravate. With each passing day, you may keep losing weight and experience more fatigue and pain. You might even need a kidney transplant if your kidney is damaged beyond repair. Kidney transplant surgery in India is offered at all the leading hospitals.
What you can do to deal with the day to day challenges?
The best kidney doctors in Delhi suggest that the challenges imposed by renal cell carcinoma can be effectively managed with some positive changes. Some of these are listed below:
Take extra care of your diet
As renal cell carcinoma aggravates, it can impact your diet as well. Most of the time you may not feel like eating or feel nauseated even if you try to do so. Loss of appetite can lead to a lack of calories, which is the basic reason for weight loss. As you continue to lose weight, your energy levels also continue to drop. Hence taking care of your diet becomes even more important. Even if you eat a small portion at regular intervals, you will be able to make up for the nutritional loss.
Try to add more fruits and veggies to your diet, at least 2 cups of each per day, as these are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients. Add healthy fats to your plate. These include salmon, olive oil and avocado. You can also consult a dietician for personalized diet plans that are curated especially to meet your specific nutritional requirements.
Stop smoking
Well, you must be already aware that smoking is one of the factors that increase the risks of renal cancer. If not, it is high time you quit the habit as it is only adding to your problems. Curbing your cravings can be difficult, but it is not impossible. Some experts even suggest that quitting the habit can help to improve your renal function. If you are finding it hard to give up the practice on your own, you can always take help from a specialist.
Stay focused on staying active
Indulging in rigorous activities and exercises is out of option, however, you can try to engage in mild to moderate exercises to boost your energy levels and stamina. This is also good for increasing your immunity, which will make it a little easier for your body to fight cancer cells. Choose activities that are both beneficial and enjoyable.
Listen to the needs of your body
It is important to understand that you will have both good and bad days. Make the most of your good days and enjoy these with the people you love, doing things that you love. Don’t force yourself to do things and go easy on yourself. If you feel tired or lethargic, take a little rest. Take care of your mental health as well. Stay away from all kinds of negativity and develop a positive attitude. Surround yourself with people who encourage and motivate you.
Stay connected with your Doctor
Expert guidance and care are very important when you are fighting a chronic ailment like renal cell carcinoma. It is, hence, extremely important to stay connected with your doctor and keep him/her updated with even the smallest detail related to your health. If you are planning to get a proper diet plan or exercise routine, discuss it with your doctor to make sure that you are going in the right direction. Maintain transparency and don’t hesitate from seeking help.
In case your doctor advises you to go for a renal transplant, you should definitely consider getting it done in India itself. Kidney transplant cost in India is comparatively cheaper than that in other countries and the facilities are at par with excellence. If you are getting any second thoughts about the procedure, you can always opt for a 2nd opinion.