Chemotherapy is a treatment that makes use of anti-cancer drugs to cure cancer cells. This process has been used for countless years. While it can be quite beneficial, it brings adverse reactions because chemotherapy medicines do not only reach cancer cells but also other areas of the body. These include fatigue, dry mouth, nerve changes, and skin and nail damage. For these reasons, you, as cancer patient, should prepare for these. Here are some ways on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects:
Do a few exercises
Fatigue is amongst the side effects of chemotherapy. You think it better just stay at home, sit back and relax and never exercise as you may feel more worn out. However, you have no idea that performing light to moderate workout routines can help cancer patients like you to feel a lot better as it provides you with more energy. You may opt to walk every single day around the neighborhood. Ask a member of the family to go with you.
Drink plenty of water
Medicines for chemotherapy can make your mouth dry. Another way on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects is to take in one and a half liter of fluid each day. Make sure that wherever you are, you have a drink ready for you to sip. Drink water and milk. You can also have a glass full of fruit and vegetable juices.
Keeping yourself hydrated can also be your way of dealing with diarrhea, which may occur a few days after the chemotherapy. But if you know that your fluid intake is not enough, you can ask for medicine so you can manage diarrhea. For the meantime, you may also avoid cereals, raw fruits and veggies.
Protect your skin
Expect skin and nail problems to arise after having treatment. Discover ways to take care of your skin and nails. Give attention to skin rashes and itchiness. Should you suffer from these, avoid swimming as chlorinated water may make things even worse. Use moisturizing cream (pick the product that has no perfume or scent) to prevent skin dryness. If you are also undergoing radiotherapy, do not apply lotion or cream right on the skin surfaces being treated with it without having the recommendations of your doctor. In case you lose your hair from treatment, use sun cream on your head. As for the nails, apply nail oils or any moisturizing cream if they turn flaky.
Work on some things to stop nerve damage
You might notice that as you take drugs for chemotherapy your hands and feet start to feel numb. You may also feel like you are being pricked by needles and pins. Never worry because as the process ends, you will see betterment in your nerves. Reach your healthcare professional for health advice. You may also consider performing light exercises, if possible. Keep your hands and feet warm. Make use of moisturizing cream or lotion to make your skin soft as well. Keep yourself busy by talking with friends to lessen your emotional burden triggered by the said nerve changes.
The list above includes only a few of the methods on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects. You may talk to your healthcare specialist on ways to manage the others that you experience.