Fw: Strategies for Easing Side Effects . . . Living with Cancer

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-- Strategies for Easing Side Effects . . . Living with Cancer

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Getting Back to Better Days

Cancer can turn your life upside down, affecting your energy levels,

emotional state, self-image, and even your relationships. The good news is

that there are strategies you can use to cope with many of the common

symptoms of cancer and the side effects of cancer treatment.

Controlling the Physical Effects

nausea: Nausea is a common side effect of chemotherapy. There are

prescription medications and alternative therapies available for controlling

it. Speak to your doctor about your options.

pain: Pain may result from the tumor itself, from metastases to the bones or

organs, or from surgery or radiation. But it can be controlled with

over-the-counter medications, prescription opioids, or other treatments, as

guided by your doctor.

fatigue: Chemotherapy often causes a drop in red blood cells, which results

in fatigue. Ask your doctor about prescription medications that help

replenish red blood cells. Also, take care of yourself by not pushing

yourself too hard and by eating well, resting, and exercising, if possible.

weakened immunity: Cancer and cancer treatments can cause white blood cell

counts to drop very low in some people, increasing the risk of infections.

This condition is called neutropenia. If you experience neutropenia or

related infections, your doctor may prescribe medications designed to

increase white blood cell production or medications aimed at fighting

existing infections.

hair loss: Chemotherapy destroys hair follicles, but hair may begin to grow

back within a few weeks to a few months after stopping treatment. In the

meantime, if the hair loss bothers you, ask your healthcare provider about

medications or inquire about prescription coverage for wigs, hats, or

scarves.

Visit the RealAge Living with Cancer Center for more tips on coping with

treatment side effects.

Supporting Your Emotional Well-Being

relationship help: Cancer affects the people who have been diagnosed as well

as their families. The people who love you may not know the best way to

support you, so communicate your fears, needs, and concerns. Take time out

of your schedule every day to talk with and support one another.

depression: People with cancer should allow themselves to mourn the change

in their health. But if sadness becomes so overwhelming that it is difficult

to function, seek help from a qualified therapist. Take the RealAge

Depression Health Assessment for personalized recommendations.

seek support: Enlisting the help of family members, friends, therapists, or

support groups can help encourage cancer sufferers and caregivers. Nurturing

emotional health and well-being through supportive social outlets is an

important part of getting on with life.

Visit the RealAge Living with Cancer Center for tips on how to stay healthy

after treatment.

From our sponsor, chemotherapy.com:

Sign up for By My Side™ Cancer Support Network programs for encouragement

and assistance in managing your cancer.

Use these tips and tools to organize information about your cancer care.

Sponsored by:

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