How to Treat the Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Cancer is a terrible disease for the afflicted and their loved ones. The treatment, chemotherapy, does nothing to make it easier. The drugs used work aggressively to keep cells from dividing. Unfortunately there is no way to isolate the effect of these drugs and keep them from attacking healthy body cells. There are many side effects accompanying this drug, but there are ways to cope with most of them. Read on to learn how to treat the side effects of chemotherapy.

Instructions

• 1

  Discuss the side effects of chemotherapy with your doctor beforehand. With his help, make a plan for dealing with each one that may come up so you are not caught unaware. Infections are the most serious risk for chemotherapy patients so it is important to learn what drugs to help white blood-cell growth. Stay clear of those who are sick and do simple things to prevent further illness like washing your hands.

• 2

  Remember that one of the most common side effects is ****. Treat your hair gently if you retain some or all of it. If you lose it all you must decide whether you will shave your head and/or buy a wig. It is important you feel good about yourself.

• 3

  Ask your doctor for anti-nausea drugs if you become sick from the chemotherapy--a common side effect. Another effect many people aren't aware are your senses of smell and taste may be altered. Food can taste different or just plain awful. The only treatment for this is to take medication to increase your appetite.

• 4

  Prepare yourself for depression and fatigue. Plan your day ahead of time and allow time for a nap, drink lots of water, and take time to exercise to keep your energy level up. Many chemotherapy patients complain of cloudy thinking and not being able to focus. This may or may not be a permanent condition.

• 5

  Be aware of the wide variety of complaints you may suffer from and the steps you can take to alleviate the pain or discomfort. You may suffer from sores in your mouth and throat or excessive dryness of the mouth, both of which can be treated with appropriate medication. Neuropathy is common--pain and/or numbness in the hands and feet caused by nerve damage. This may be irreversible.