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This will depend on the type of treatment you have had and what you have been used to doing. You will have continuing medical support from your cancer team, as well as support from a range of other services to help you cope.
After surgery you will usually be told not to drive or lift any heavy objects for several weeks. You should discuss this with your surgeon.
You will be given advice on how to increase exercise gradually. If you are used to being active, ask what you can or can't do. Your doctor, cancer nurse specialist or the physiotherapist will be able to tell you.
If you have a stoma, a stoma nurse will continue to give you the support you need.
Other effects
Removing portions of the colon or rectum, or radiotherapy to the bowel, can affect the way the bowels work. It may take several months for your system to settle down. Both surgery and radiotherapy can upset your bladder and your sex life. Your doctors will explain about these after-effects, but you should feel free to ask for more information if you want it.
See our radiotherapy section for more information on the after-effects of radiotherapy.
See our chemotherapy section for more information on the after-effects of chemotherapy.
Be encouraged that most of the unwanted side effects should go away gradually, once your course of treatment has ended.
Our living with cancer section contains more information on:
- Coping with symptoms and side-effects
- Talking about cancer
- The emotional impact
- When your child has cancer
- Getting back to normal after treatment.
See our palliative care section of the website for more information on what happens when cancer can't be cured.
Carers
Cancerbackup produces a useful series of leaflet for carers. See Where can I get more information for details.
