5 Things You Need to Know About Coping With Chemotherapy

1. Become Educated

Being told you need to undergo cancer chemotherapy may leave you feeling sad, scared and overwhelmed. While all those feeling are normal becoming educated on your treatment options may help you feel more in control and make chemotherapy seem less frightening. Ask your doctor about the specific medications you will be given and what to expect. Contact the American Cancer Society in your area which may be able to pair you up with a cancer survivor who has already gone through treatment. He or she can help answer questions and give you tips for coping with treatment.

2. Deal With Physical Side Effects

Chemotherapy affects people differently. A common side effect is nausea and vomiting. Cope by eating smaller amounts more often and avoiding very sweet or greasy foods. Suck hard lemon or mint candies. Keep in mind medication for nausea is often prescribed and taken prior to treatment. Fatigue may also occur with chemotherapy. Take breaks throughout the day as needed. Accept help from others with chores and childcare if needed. Talk with your doctor about any side effects which are concerning you.

3. Cope Emotionally During Chemotherapy

It is not unusual to have some anxiety or depression during chemotherapy. Keep a calendar and mark off treatments to help your realize you are making progress. Participate in activities you enjoy as often as possible. Talk about your fears with a friend, counselor or your doctor. Consider attending a support group for others going through chemotherapy. If you start to have a loss of interest in most activities and constantly feel sad and tearful or have thoughts of suicide talk with your doctor immediately. Medication for depression and or counseling may be prescribed.

4. Keep Up Appearances

Chemotherapy may affect your appearance by changes to your skin, weight gain or loss and loss of hair. These physical changes will bother some people more than others but keep in mind looking better does sometimes make you feel better. Prepare for hair loss ahead of time by selecting a wig that matches your style and color. Pay attention to skin care since some medications may cause sun sensitivity or dryness. Attend a class held by the American Cancer Society called Look Good Feel Better. Tips on makeup and skin care are discussed.

5. Life After Chemotherapy

You had your last treatment and it's a day to celebrate. But it may take some time to feel like your old self both physically and emotionally. Keep in mind during treatment you may have felt like you were actively destroying the cancer. After treatment you may feel vulnerable and worried about a relapse. These feeling are normal and may take some time to decrease. Physically you may still have some fatigue and side effects such as numbness in your hands or feet. Resume normal activities at your own pace and be patient with yourself.