How to Manage the Side Effects of Colon Cancer Treatment

Colon cancer attacks the lining of the colon and rectal area of the large intestine. Depending on the stage of your cancer and the number of polyps you have, you may require aggressive treatment that causes unpleasant side effects. These side effects of treatment can often be managed with the right guidance and therapy.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Oncologist or physician

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Instructions

• 1

  Discuss your situation with your doctor and request written information that details all possible side effects and corresponding management strategies. For instance, if you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, loss of appetite and significant hair loss are possible. Those undergoing immunotherapy might experience allergic reactions or a drop in blood pressure.

• 2

  Expect a slowdown. The most common side effect of colon cancer treatment is fatigue. Both the disease itself and the treatment wear you down. Eat foods higher in vitamins and allow yourself to take short naps. In general, you should reduce your daily activity.

• 3

  Pay attention to what you eat. In addition to eating healthful foods, you should avoid large meals and hot foods (hot in the sense of both temperature and taste). Chewing slowly and thoroughly may also help combat nausea.

• 4

  Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can cause your body to lose fluids. Drink plenty of water to ward off dehydration from excessive vomiting and diarrhea.

• 5

  Ask your doctor to prescribe antiemetics (medications that reduce nausea and vomiting). Also have your doctor check your other prescriptions to see if they are worsening side effects of treatment. For instance, blood pressure medication can interfere with immunotherapy.

• 6

  After meals, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This can help manage mouth sores that may be caused by chemotherapy. Be sure to discuss any sores that develop with your doctor.