Lymphoma is best described as cancer of the lymphatic system. Like many other forms of cancer, treatment usually involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy or stem cell transplant. Any one of these treatment options can take a toll on your overall health, especially when it comes to chemo or radiation. Meeting public health guidelines for aerobic and anaerobic exercise may help to improve quality of life and physical functioning both during and after treatment for this grouping of diseases.
Guidelines
According to the American College of Sports Medicine, you should get at least 30 minutes of moderately-intense physical activity five days a week or 20 minutes of vigorously-intense physical activity three days a week. This aerobic exercise should be combined with eight to 10 strength-training activities twice a week. Each strength-training activity should consist of one set of eight to 12 repetitions.
Quality of Life
One of the main benefits of regular physical activity both during and after the treatment of lymphoma is quality of life. A study published in the "Journal of the Psychological, Social and Behavioral Dimensions of Cancer" indicated that aerobic exercise improved the patient's ability to enjoy normal life activities. You'll generally be happier and less likely to suffer from depression than those individuals following standard medical treatment alone, according to the results of the study.
Physical Health
Not only does regular physical activity improve quality of life, but it's also known to maintain lean body mass and cardiovascular fitness. Both body composition and the ability of the heart, lungs and vascular system to transport oxygen can greatly decline as a result of chemotherapy for lymphoma. This can lead to fatigue as well as reduce your overall physical functioning. Regular exercise can combat these effects, indicates a study published in the "Journal of Clinical Oncology." This can improve energy, endurance and the ability to physically keep up with the demands of everyday life.
Treatment
The Lymphoma Research Foundation also explains that regular physical activity may help you better tolerate the standard treatments for lymphoma, including radiation and chemotherapy. This can mean anything from less fatigue to fewer problems with cognitive functions, such as memory lapses, poor concentration or verbal difficulties. It may also help to reduce sexual side effects, like reduced libido.
Recommendation
Before making any changes to your level of physical activity, talk to your doctor. Though it's always important to listen to your body in regard to exercise during the treatment of lymphoma, a medical professional can recommend the type of exercise to best suit your level of fitness, overall health and medical condition.
References
- Lymphoma Research Foundation: Physical Well-Being
- Journal of the Psychological, Social and Behavioral Dimensions of Cancer: Differences in Quality Of Life between Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Survivors Meeting and Not Meeting Public Health Exercise Guidelines
- Journal of Clinical Oncology: Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Physical Functioning and Quality of Life in Lymphoma Patients
- American College of Sports Medicine: Guidelines for Healthy Adults under Age 65
