While many of the side effects of chemotherapy treatment are common to most everyone, there still can be differences in how patients react to the cancer fighting drugs. Coping with the effects of chemotherapy varies with the severity of the side effects, the temperament of the patient and the support in place prior to the treatments.
Instructions
1. Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, listening to soothing music, mediation and yoga. Collect music and narrative tapes and CDs that will provide a relaxing atmosphere when stress and anxiety hit. Play the tapes while lying down or sitting in a calming location.
2. Join a support group of others going through chemotherapy who can understand your feelings and empathize with your symptoms. It can be difficult for people who haven't experienced the devastating consequences of cancer and chemotherapy to understand what you're going through. Others in similar situations can share coping tricks they've learned and act as a sounding board for your concerns.
3. Shop for wigs and hats while you are still feeling well, before you begin the treatments and lose your hair. Ask a friend or family member to join you on a hunt for the perfect hairpieces and head coverings to that you'll have them when you need them. Make a fun day of the outing and laugh as you try on the various wigs.
4. Stock up on food and drinks that can help relieve the symptoms. Diarrhea often is a side effect of chemotherapy and can be treated with clear liquids such as apple juice and broth. Eat nutritious, low-fiber foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Keep potassium levels regulated with food on hand, such as apricots, potatoes and bananas.
5. Add regular exercise to your daily routine to help fight the fatigue that accompanies chemotherapy. Stick to a regimen that you can perform easily, such as a walk to the corner or a round of yoga movements. Forced exercise will help minimize the effects of the drugs even when you don't feel like moving.
Tags: chemotherapy understand, effects chemotherapy, going through, side effects