Skin side effects of bowel cancer treatments

Bowel cancer treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy, can cause several skin-related side effects. These are usually mild and not signs of a serious problem. Some skin side effects can be indicative of an allergic reaction, however. Call your doctor immediately if you experience a rash or hives during or following chemotherapy treatment, or if you suddenly develop severe itching.

Irritation

• Some bowel cancer patients need to have surgery to remove part of the colon. If the healthy sections of the colon cannot be reattached during surgery, the surgeon creates a hole in the abdominal wall that is connected to the upper portion of the intestine, and then attaches a colostomy bag to the hole to collect waste. Some patients experience irritation around the hole that may cause itching or pain. Clean the area according to your doctor's instructions to prevent irritation and infection. If the hole appears red or swollen, or causes severe pain, notify your doctor as soon as possible so that he can check for infection.

Acne

• Chemotherapy drugs can cause acne breakouts on the face, neck, shoulders or chest. Keep your skin clean and dry to minimize acne. Do not use medicated soaps or acne creams without asking your doctor first. Most of the time, acne will clear on its own after a few chemotherapy treatments or after treatment ends.

Itching/Dryness

• Itching and dry skin are common skin side effects in patients undergoing chemotherapy for bowel cancer. To minimize dryness, take short, warm showers or sponge baths. Lengthy, hot showers can dry skin. Use body soap with a moisturizer. Dust dry, itchy skin with cornstarch to ease itching and apply lotion while your skin is moist after a shower. Do not use perfumes or colognes that contain alcohol, as these can cause more dryness.

Sunlight Sensitivity

• Some chemotherapy patients develop sensitivity to the sun. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in the early afternoon hours, if you can; use sunscreen or zinc oxide if you must be outside in direct sunlight. Protect your lips with balms that contain sun protection. If you have hair loss, wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and scalp from the sun.

Skin Darkening

• Some chemotherapy patients experience a darkening of the skin around the veins. This is especially common in patients with naturally dark skin tones. This pigment change usually fades on its own a few months after treatment. You can use water-based makeup to cover the dark areas if they are small. Never use makeup on open sores or over areas where you just had an IV inserted.