The side of effects of cancer and Chemotherapy in cancer treatment are known to be varied and painful. Even so, they can be dealt with, with the right amount of guidance and patience. These side effects more often than not affect the mental well being of an individual as they manifest themselves physically. The changes in appearance make you feel a sense of loss of a part of you. Do not let these changes have an adverse effect on you since they can very much be reversed once you recover.Listed below are a few side effects of cancer and a few ways of preventing yourself from side effects of cancer and relieving them.
Anaemia and Bleeding Problems
Anaemia is a condition in which the body is devoid of the necessary amount of RBCs. RBCs are the oxygen carriers in the body. They also constitute the haemoglobin levels of the body. Anaemia causes weakness and tiredness. The best way of dealing with anaemia is to conserve your energy to do only the necessary things, having the right nutrition to boost your haemoglobin levels and giving enough rest to your body. Make sure your diet includes iron and protein in sufficient quantities. The symptoms can be,
- Dizzy or faint
- Short of breath
- Very weak and tired
- •Rapid heart beat
Chemotherapy can make it easier for a person to bleed. In such a case, constant care needs to be taken to prevent bruising and bleeding. The following steps can be taken to make sure you do not bleed.
- Use an electric shaver, not a razor.
- Be careful when using scissors, knives, or other sharp objects.
- Wear shoes all the time, to protect your feet.
- Blow your nose gently.
- Brush your teeth with a very soft toothbrush.
If the following symptoms are observed as side effects of cnacer, bring them to the notice of your doctor immediately.
- Bruises.
- Tiny, red, pinpoint spots on your skin.
- Bad headaches.
- Changes in vision.
- Feeling confused or very sleepy.
- When bleeding doesn’t stop for a long time.
- Bleeding from your mouth or nose.
- Bleeding from your vagina.
- Bleeding during your period is heavier or lasts longer than normal.
- Blood in your urine. The urine will have a red or pink colour to it.
- Black or bloody stools.
Preventing the Damage
- Using a mouth wash regularly and making sure your mouth stays clean when you are going through Chemotherapy sessions will prevent the occurrence of mouth ulcers and and also protect you from tooth loss. If the mouth is not properly cared for, the cells inside the mouth divide rapidly and tend to tear up the mouth.
- It is important to not get pregnant during a cancer treatment as it can have adverse effects on the foetus. Consult your doctor for safer, alternative treatments if you are diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy.
The side effects of cancer can be dealt with effectively if you follow your doctor’s advice correctly and do the needful.
