April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder to talk not just about diagnosis, but about what comes after. For many people, the end of active treatment marks the beginning of a different kind of challenge.
Bowel cancer treatment, which may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, often in combination, can leave lasting effects on the body. Fatigue is a commonly reported side effect, sometimes persisting for months after treatment ends.
Changes in bowel function are also frequent, ranging from urgency and discomfort to longer-term digestive difficulties. Where radiotherapy has been part of treatment, some clients experience radiation injury to surrounding tissues, which can be slow to heal and may affect quality of life.
Early rehabilitation and consistent follow-up care can make a real difference. Physiotherapy, dietetic support, and open conversations with your medical team about ongoing symptoms can all contribute to a better recovery. No symptom should feel too small to mention.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT ) is one approach that may offer support during this stage. By delivering highly-concentrated oxygen through a face mask in a comfortable pressurised chamber, HBOT increases the amount of oxygen available in the bloodstream and tissues.
This can help to:
? reduce inflammation.
? help the body fight infection.
? promote the growth of new blood vessels.
? support tissue repair.
These benefits are all relevant for those recovering from surgery or managing side effects of radiotherapy.
Each session lasts up to 90 minutes, and many clients use this time to relax, read, or chat.
Clients always remain under the care of their own medical team, and we work with most insurance providers to make it easier for you to access HBOT.
To find out more, contact OxyGeneration in Galway on 091 394 444.
