Chemotherapy And Infection
One of the major side effects of chemotherapy is infection. The anticancer drugs administered during chemotherapy affects the bone marrow which produces white blood cells(WBC). As the bone marrow is affected, it becomes difficult for the body to produce the white blood cells. These white blood cells (WBC) fight all types of infections. As the WBCs are weakened, the body becomes prone to various infections which come from bacteria found on the skin,mouth,intestine,genital tract etc. During chemotherapy, the doctor should often check the blood cell count and if necessary should give the required medicines to increase the cell count.
The following are the different symptoms of infection for which the patient should consult
his/her doctor:
* High fever.
* Severe cough/sore throat.
* chills.
* Sweating.
* Burning sensation during urination.
* Mouth sores.
* Unusual discharge or itching in the vaginal area.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy may follow the following steps to prevent infections:
(a) Try to keep your hands clean. Wash them often, particularly before eating and after you
use the toilet.
(b) Keep your rectal area clean.
(c) Try to avoid crowded places.
(d) Be careful when you are using a needle, scissor or similar object. do not cut your skin.
(e) Do not prick or squeeze pimples.
(f) Keep your mouth and gum clean.
(g) Keep away from people affected by illnesses like flu, measeles, chicken pox etc.
(h) Every day, take a bath with warm water.
(g) If your skin becomes dry or cracked, use some lotion/oil to soften it.
(h) Be careful with any cut on your skin. Keep the area clean and apply some antiseptic.
(i) Avoid any contact with bird cages, fish tanks or any animal waste.
(J) Try to use gloves and protective masks during gardening or cleaning.
(k) It is better to avoid eating sea foods, eggs or meat.