Chemotherapy refers to a type of cancer treatment that takes a toll on the body and the mind. Although aimed at killing cancer cells, it also affects some of the normal cells of the body in the bargain, especially those that grow quickly. These include cells lining your mouth and intestines, cells in the bone marrow which make blood cells and those which cause hair growth. If you have been diagnosed with cancer and are slated for chemo, take an active role in your treatment. Cancer is surrounded by a number of misconceptions, and one way of overcoming your fear is to understand as much as possible about it – the more questions you ask about the treatment options and associated side-effects, the better you fight your fears and gain control. Talk to your doctor, nurse and others diagnosed with it. You could also join support groups to tide over the process.
Understanding side effects of chemo Some of the distressing side-effects of chemo include fatigue, hair loss, nausea and vomiting, mouth sores, pain and frequent infections. Depending on the type, amount and duration of chemotherapy, these can take from a few months to a few years to clear up. Some types of chemotherapy, however, may also cause serious side-effects like damage to vital organs including heart, lungs, kidneys and reproductive organs.
Awareness of the most common side-effects of chemotherapy and understanding how you can handle them will help hasten your recovery process:
Fatigue: Get adequate rest; sleep at least 8 hours every night and eat a nutritious and balanced diet. A person who is well-rested can deal better with the stress of diagnosis and treatment of cancer
Hair loss: Be gentle while washing your hair, avoid hair treatments that could damage your hair, protect your scalp by wearing a cap or scarf, avoid extremes of temperature and stay warm as far as possible.
Nausea and vomiting: Your doctor will prescribe drugs to reduce nausea and vomiting. You could also benefit by eating bland and easy-to-digest food and small, frequent meals.
Mouth sores: Oral hygiene is very important during chemo, as the mouth could be a source of infection. Brush twice daily, visit your dentist regularly, keep your mouth moist by frequently sipping water, eat food which is soft and well-cooked, and avoid spicy or piquant foods. It is also a good idea to get a dental check-up before beginning chemo.
Infections: Since treatment reduces the blood cell levels, there is an increased chance of infections. Maintain hygiene scrupulously – wash your hands frequently, clean yourself thoroughly after a bowel movement, keep away from sick people, avoid crowds, and wash raw vegetables and fruits thoroughly before eating them. Keep a thermometer available, since fever is an important sign of infection. If you develop fever higher than 100.5oF or chills/ sweats, call your doctor right away.
Pain: Your doctor will help you deal with pain by giving you effective medication.
Eat well: Eating properly is very important while undergoing chemotherapy. Good nutrition helps you cope better with the side-effects and fight infection more easily. Certain cancer therapies are known to be more effective in patients who are well-nourished.
Exercise: Exercising is beneficial during chemo. It will not only help maintain your physical strength, but will also help you beat the stress and depression. Try engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, like walking every day.
Get help: It would make it easier for you to have someone take care of your daily chores, especially during the period you are undergoing chemotherapy. Arrange for transportation to your chemotherapy appointments, instead of driving yourself, since each patient reacts differently to chemotherapy sessions. It would also be emotionally supportive to have someone accompany you. It’s also a good idea to make arrangements for child care, especially if you have a young child.
Be positive: Remember this treatment is going to help you get better. The right frame of mind will speed up your recovery process, and will help you cope better with its side-effects.
Chemotherapy refers to a type of cancer treatment that takes a toll on the body and the mind. Although aimed at killing cancer cells, it also affects some of the normal cells of the body in the bargain, especially those that grow quickly. These include cells lining your mouth and intestines, cells in the bone marrow which make blood cells and those which cause hair growth.