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5 Tips for Getting Through Chemo

HomeWellness5 Tips for Getting Through Chemo

Chemotherapy is one of the most common ways to prevent the spread of cancer cells in the body. 

Read on for five tips that will help get you through chemo.

1. Prepare Your Body

The single most important thing you can do throughout the chemotherapy process is to take care of yourself. Your body has already been fighting long and hard to stop the spread of cancer. Although extremely helpful in aiding the battle against cancer cells, the chemical drugs can wreak havoc on your body and its natural functions. 

Chemotherapy treatment comes with some unpleasant side effects. Let’s take a look at some ways in which you can care for your body and minimize its adverse effects.

Stay Hydrated

You’ll need to stay hydrated, as chemotherapy can be severely dehydrating. Experts recommend at least 8 to 12 eight-ounce glasses of water per day. This translates to between roughly 64 and 80 ounces of water. 

Increase this number if you are doing any exercise or the weather is particularly warm. Keep a water bottle with you at all times and refill frequently.

Prevent & Treat Nausea

Most chemotherapy treatments induce nausea in patients. Ask your doctor about prescriptions that can help to regulate and minimize the effects. Furthermore, consider stocking up on ginger and sour candies or fruits, as these products have been known to lessen the intensity of nausea.

Get Some Rest

We said it before, but it’s worth restating how hard your body is fighting during this process. Do it a favor and get some rest. Conserve what little energy you have in any way you can. You may feel fine, in which case a little light exercise may be in order. But don’t push yourself too far and cause burnout.

2. Control Your Surroundings

It may feel like your world is slowly spiraling out of control. Your time, energy, diet ⏤ none of it is your own. But focus your attention on what you can control and take hold of it. 

For example, there may be long stretches where you feel miserable and can’t find the energy to do anything productive. That doesn’t mean you have to throw in the towel, however. Keep yourself busy and entertained, even on the worst days. Listening to music or podcasts, playing games, or reading books can take your mind off your situation and give you some much-needed escape. You may even learn something new and noteworthy during your time.

Pack a bag with some of the most essential things you’ll need during your treatment. This will help keep you in control and give you a sense of security in the midst of chaos. In your bag, be sure to pack books, magazines, your phone or tablet, headphones, water and healthy snacks, and a few comfortable clothing items such as sweaters or blankets.

3. Maintain Consistency

Maintaining a regular schedule is vital to your success and well-being, both mentally and physically. This means getting to bed at a decent hour every night and getting quality sleep. This means setting an alarm and waking up at the same time every morning. This also means making time for consistent meals and setting aside additional time for leisure and entertainment. 

Chemotherapy is exhausting, and its side effects will take a massive toll on your body. By setting a routine and sticking to it, you’ll be working to fend off the onset of fatigue.

4. Get Used to Different

“Different” is a word that can be used to describe a lot of the experiences and sensations that come with chemotherapy. That’s not always a bad thing, as long as you’re prepared for whatever may come your way. 

Patients often find that it helps to know what they’re getting into before the time arrives. Read on for a list of things that may change during and between your chemotherapy sessions.

Hair Loss

This is an unfortunate and often unavoidable side effect of the chemicals in chemotherapy treatments. For many people, this will be a new experience, so be sure to plan for it ahead of time. 

Some patients like to rock the bald look, while others prefer the warmth and style of hats, turbans, or even wigs. There are many options available, so choose one that’s right for you!

Taste

Many chemotherapy patients have reported a loss or altered state of taste. This can be frustrating when food and drink don’t taste the way your brain thinks they should. 

During this time, consider branching out and trying foods you’ve never tried before. Your brain won’t know quite what to expect, so you can enjoy the flavor for what it is. Alternatively, liberal use of seasonings and spices can amp up the flavor of a dish, even when your taste buds are dulled.

Strength and Sensation

It’s not uncommon to lose strength in your muscles during treatment. Something as simple as lifting a spoon or opening a bottle cap can become impossible to accomplish. Furthermore, many patients report heightened sensations, including heat, cold, and pain.

5. Gather Support

Friends and family are a critical part of your treatment and recovery, especially when it comes to caring for the elderly. Lean on them for support when you’re not feeling your best. Ask them to take care of your house, pets, and plants when you’re unable to tend to them yourself. 

Surround yourself with people who will cheer you on and encourage you through the process, and then celebrate with you on the other side.

Knowledge Is Power

Hopefully, these tips will make your chemotherapy experience a little easier. It may not be easy, but at least you’ll know what to expect going in and be able to prepare in advance. Take the time to fortify your body and mind, and map out a consistent routine that you can follow every day. 

Before you know it, you’ll have made it through stronger than ever before!

You may want to read more,

pearls of wisdom
Aaron Smith
Aaron Smith
Aaron Smith is an LA-based content strategist and consultant in support of STEM firms and medical practices. He covers industry developments and helps companies connect with clients. In his free time, Aaron enjoys swimming, swing dancing, and sci-fi novels.

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