Table of Contents
What is the main problem with chemotherapy?
Mouth, tongue, and throat problems such as sores and pain with swallowing. Peripheral neuropathy or other nerve problems, such as numbness, tingling, and pain. Skin and nail changes such as dry skin and color change. Urine and bladder changes and kidney problems.
What should you not say during chemotherapy?
Don’t say “I know how you feel” because you can’t possibly know. Better to ask, “Do you want to talk about how you feel, how having cancer is affecting you?” Don’t offer information about unproven treatments or referrals to doctors with questionable credentials.
Is chemo worse the second time around?
The effects of chemo are cumulative. They get worse with each cycle. My doctors warned me: Each infusion will get harder. Each cycle, expect to feel weaker.
How sick does Chemo make you?
Chemotherapy can make you feel sick (nauseated) or cause you to vomit. Not everyone feels sick during or after chemotherapy, but if nausea affects you, it will usually start a few hours after treatment. Nausea may last for many hours and be accompanied by vomiting or retching.
What do you say to someone who is going through chemo?
Here are some ideas:
- “I’m not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care”.
- “I’m sorry to hear that you are going through this”.
- “How are you doing?”
- “If you would like to talk about it, I’m here”.
- “Please let me know how I can help”.
- “I’ll keep you in my thoughts”.
What do you say when someone is going through chemo?
“The last thing someone going through chemo wants to hear is about how treatment went poorly for someone else.” Her advice: The minute someone begins sharing, hold a hand up and say, “Thank you for caring, but I don’t want to hear stories about other people right now.” 2. “The most helpful information didn’t come from my oncologist.”
What should I do to avoid any side effects from chemotherapy?
Visit the dentist to make sure you don’t have any bacteria in your mouth that could cause an infection during treatment. Wash your hands often while you’re on chemotherapy, and ask your friends and family who are around you to do the same. Stay away from people and pets who are sick. Even a mild cold can become more severe during chemo. 10.
What can I expect during chemotherapy treatment?
You’ll meet with your cancer doctor (oncologist) regularly during chemotherapy treatment. Your oncologist will ask about any side effects you’re experiencing, since many can be controlled. Depending on your situation, you may also undergo scans and other tests to monitor your cancer during chemotherapy treatment.
What are the side effects of cancer that people don’t talk about?
It’s also common to have other side effects that people don’t talk about as much, such as trouble with memory and concentration, feeling dizzy, or having pain and numbness during or after chemo. 4. “I don’t want to think about cancer all the time.”