29 February 2012

Coping With Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy has many side effects that many are having a hard time to pass. Any person who is undergoing chemotherapy will experience different side effects. In treatment centers for cancer, doctors will advise you on the different side effects you may encounter.

Fever or flu-like symptoms are common during chemotherapy. If you experience muscle aches or pains that are symptoms of the flu, you can take medications such as Advil readily available. Or, if you want something more powerful than you should call your local cancer treatment. Some people also feel tired and this stress tends to worsen over time. But once you stop chemotherapy, fatigue goes away. However, we can try to exercise every day to keep their energy up. Swimming, walking or yoga are all excellent forms of exercise.

Some people also tend to suffer from diarrhea and constipation. If you go there, over the counter medications are not recommended. You should immediately contact your local cancer treatment. Diarrhea can also lead to dehydration. Therefore, it is recommended to drink plenty of water, about 8 to 10 glasses each day to replace lost fluids. To help with constipation, food rich in fiber helps.

Hair loss is one of the most dreaded side effects of chemotherapy. But all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. In general, hair loss begins after two weeks of starting chemotherapy. The amount of hair loss is different. Some people may lose very little time, some may even go bald and lose body hair. The hair grows back after two to three months of stopping chemotherapy, but to get through the time you may want to consider purchasing a wig or covering your head with a scarf or hat.

Mouth sores are a common side effect of chemotherapy. If your wounds too painful, you should contact the centers for cancer treatment as they may prescribe a special rinse mouth. At home we can try rinsing the mouth with a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda and a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.

Another side effect of chemotherapy are nausea and appetite loss. This can also be followed with the change in taste. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid caffeine helps with nausea. Try to drink herbal and fresh juices. Drug against nausea may also be useful. You may also find that you can tolerate certain types of food. It is recommended that you eat what you like.