Because chemotherapy drugs contain powerful agents designed to kill cancer cells throughout the body, they also kill healthy cells, report doctors at the American Cancer Society. Every patient reacts differently to chemotherapy. Most patients can help offset the side effects and learn how to avoid some of them by taking a few precautionary steps.
Step 1
Eat small meals to avoid a full stomach that can become easily upset when the chemotherapy reacts. Nausea and vomiting are common reactions to chemo and can be alleviated by eating 5 or 6 small meals throughout the day, instead of 3 bigger meals.
Step 2
Find a room that is cooler and free of smells when you eat to avoid becoming nauseated. Stay away from heavy perfumes, smoke and other odors as much as possible.
Step 3
Go easy on the hair products, and you might reduce the amount of hair that you lose. Use mild shampoo and soft-bristled hairbrushes. Stop coloring, setting and perming your hair, and let your hair air-dry whenever possible. Sleep on a satin pillowcase, and wear a hat when outdoors. Wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
Step 4
Use a soft toothbrush to clean your teeth after every meal to avoid mouth sores. Find a mild fluoride mouthwash to rinse with daily. Get a dental checkup prior to chemotherapy treatment to take care of any cavities and other dental problems that often become exacerbated during chemo.
Step 5
Talk to your partner about sex and how both of you feel about being intimate while one of you is on chemotherapy. Doctors at the American Cancer Society say that many people struggle with sexual relations during treatment and can alleviate many fears by talking about their feelings.
Tips and Warnings
- Minimize many of the side effects of chemotherapy with anti-nausea medication, relaxation techniques and support groups that can help to reduce stress, a major contributor to the severity of those side effects, report doctors at the American Brain Tumor Association.
- Don't go on a diet while on chemotherapy. Although some people gain weight during treatments, you still need a balanced diet to maintain your health. Doctors at the ACS believe that weight gain occurs because of the intense cravings chemotherapy can cause. You need proper levels of protein to repair skin, hair and bone damage, as well as nutrition to fight infection and to deal with other side effects.
Things You'll Need
- Small meals
- Mild shampoo
- Soft-bristled hairbrush
- Soft toothbrush
