Chemotherapy is a medical care that makes use of anti-cancer drugs to cure cancer cells. This procedure has been utilized for a long time. While it could be very effective, it brings unwanted effects because chemotherapy medicines do not only reach cancer cells but also all areas of the body. Some examples are fatigue, dry mouth, nerve changes, and skin and nail damage. For these reasons, you, as cancer patient, should prepare yourself for these. Here are a few ways on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects:
Do a few exercises.
Fatigue is probably the side effects of chemotherapy. You think it better just stay at home, sit back and relax and never work out as you may feel more tired. However, you have no idea that performing light to moderate workouts can help cancer patients like you to feel a lot better as it gives you more energy. You may opt to walk each day around the neighborhood. Ask a member of the family to come 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 consume one and a half liter of fluid each day. Be sure that wherever you are, you have a drink ready for you to drink. Drink water and milk. You can also take a glass full of vegetable and fruit juices.
Staying hydrated can also be your way of fighting diarrhea, which may occur a few days after the chemotherapy. But if you know that your fluid intake is not adequate, you can ask for medicine so you can deal with diarrhea. For the meantime, you may also avoid cereals, raw fruits and vegetables.
Protect your skin.
Expect skin and nail problems to arise after going through treatment. Figure out how 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 worse. Use moisturizing cream (select the product that has no perfume or scent) to stop skin dryness. If you are also having radiotherapy, do not apply lotion or cream right on the skin areas 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 a few things to stop nerve damage.
You may notice that as you take drugs for chemotherapy your hands and feet start to feel numb. You may also think that you are being pricked by needles and pins. Never worry because as the therapy ends, you will see improvement in your nerves. Reach your healthcare professional for medical health advice. You may also consider undertaking 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 communicating with friends to lessen your emotional burden triggered by the said nerve changes.
The list above comes with only a few of the methods on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects. You may check with your healthcare specialist on ways to manage the others that you experience.