How to Cope with Chemotherapy Side Effects

Chemotherapy is a treatment that makes use of anti-cancer drugs to cure cancer cells. This procedure has been utilized for countless years. While it could be very beneficial, it brings side 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 for these. Here are a few ways on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects:

Carry out some exercises.

Fatigue is among the side effects of chemotherapy. You think it wise to 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 workout routines can help cancer patients like you to feel a lot better as it gives you more energy. You may choose to walk every day around the neighborhood. Ask a relative to come with you.

Drink plenty of water.

Medicines for chemotherapy can make your mouth dry. An additional 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 drink. Drink water and milk. You can also enjoy a glass full of fruit and vegetable juices.

Staying hydrated can also be your way of fighting diarrhea, which may happen several days after the chemotherapy. But if you know that your fluid intake is not enough, you can ask for medicine so you can deal with diarrhea. For the meantime, you may also steer clear of cereals, raw fruits and veggies.

Protect your skin.

Anticipate skin and nail problems to arise after going through treatment. Discover ways to take care of your skin and nails. Give attention to skin rashes and itchiness. If you suffer from these, refrain from swimming as chlorinated water may make things worse. Put on moisturizing cream (select the product that has no perfume or scent) to stop skin dryness. If you are also having radiotherapy, do not apply cream or lotion right on the skin areas being treated with it without getting the recommendations of your doctor. In case you lose your hair from therapy, 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 avoid nerve damage.

You may 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 improvement 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. Use moisturizing cream or lotion to make your skin soft as well. Keep yourself busy by talking with friends to reduce your emotional burden triggered by the said nerve changes.

The list above consists of only a few of the methods on how to cope with chemotherapy side effects. You may talk to your healthcare specialist on ways to deal with the others that you experience.