Self-Care Tips for Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Finding out your cancer is treatable is a huge relief. But will chemotherapy and radiation make you feel worse than the disease does? "Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer by targeting cells that reproduce quickly," explains Girish Amin, M.D., a hematologist and medical oncologist at Ocean Medical Center. "But these drugs travel throughout the body and can hurt healthy cells, too." For example, chemotherapy may damage hair follicles, causing hair loss all over the body.

Dr. Amin notes that radiation's side effects depend on the body part that's being treated. "Radiation on cancer cells in the abdomen, for example, may affect surrounding tissue and lead to diarrhea," he says.

It's difficult to say who will have specific side effects. The type of cancer, the chemotherapy drug or amount of radiation, and your health all play a part. Before you begin treatment, ask your health care team what to watch for and how you can cope. Then incorporate the self-care tips below.

Fatigue
"Many cancer patients experience fatigue," says Dr. Amin. "It's one of the most common side effects." Try to:

• Prioritize. Don't fret if you can't get to less important tasks on your to-do list.
• Ask friends and family to help with chores and errands.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Set an alarm for daytime naps if you have trouble sleeping at night.
• Exercise regularly, but don't overdo it. Ask your doctor about appropriate activities.

Hair Loss
With chemotherapy, your hair may thin or fall out. Radiation tends to cause hair loss only in the targeted area. Hair usually grows back, but it may not be the same texture or color. If you are concerned, consider the following:

• As your hair thins, maximize fullness with a shorter cut.
• Purchase hats, scarves, or wigs.
• If you are going hatless outdoors, apply sunscreen on your scalp, too.

Nausea
This classic chemotherapy side effect also can happen with radiation. Here's how to cope:

• Take prescription antinausea medication as directed. If it isn't working, tell your doctor. There may be other options.
• Sip clear liquids such as apple juice, tea, or flat ginger ale.
• Have smaller meals more frequently.
• Eat foods cold or at room temperature. The aromas won't be as strong.

"Always keep your health care team informed about your side effects," advises Dr. Amin. "Your doctor may be able to adjust your treatment or prescribe medication to help you feel better."

About The Doctor

Amin, Girish S., M.D. Board certified in Internal Medicine Brick, NJ  08724 (732) 840-8880