Side Effects Of Chemotherapy
There are many side effects for chemotherapy treatment. As the anti-cancer drugs and
chemicals are made to kill all rapidly dividing cells, it affects many normal and healthy
cells. This damage to normal cells is the cause for the side effects. The normal cells
which are affected by the anticancer drugs are the blood cells and the cells present in the
digestive tract, nails, hair, the reproductive system etc. As a result, the patient may
suffer from nausea, vomiting, fatigue, depression, hair loss and various other symptoms.
The following are some suggestions to deal with the common side effects:
(a) Nausea and Vomiting.
These are the most common side effects of chemotherapy. These are mainly caused due to the
damage to cells present in the lining of the digestive tract. Another reason is the stimulation of a certain area of the brain called the ‘chemoreceptor trigger zone’ by certain drugs. Doctors prescribe various drugs to combat these side effects. Sometimes a single drug may not work properly and a combination of drugs are required. Different drugs work for different people. The following steps may be followed to avoid nausea and vomiting:
* Instead of large meals, eat small meals throughout the day. Eat and drink slowly. Chew
your food well.
* Don’t drink any liquids with your meals. Drink liquids at least one hour before or after
your meals.
* Try to avoid eating hot food.
* You can drink cool,fresh and natural fruit juices like apple juice or grapefruit juice.
* When you feel nauseated, take deep and slow breathes. Try to wear loose fitting clothes.
* Try to avoid strong smells.
(b) Fatigue.
Fatigue, feeling of tiredness, lack of energy and depression are very common with patients
undergoing chemotherapy. One reason is that the anticancer drugs attack and destroy the
red blood cells. These blood cells carry oxygen to the different parts of the body. Due to the lack of oxygen, the body gets tired. The following steps may be followed to avoid fatigue and tiredness:
* Instead of having long rest periods, try to take short rests or naps throughout the day.
* You may take short walks or do light exercise ( if your body permits).
* Try to eat good wholesome food and drink plenty of water or other liquids.
* Try activities like meditation and yoga.
* Join a support group and share your feelings with others.