Managing the side effects of chemotherapy is possible if you pay attention to small things and take due care. Side effects happen because most of the available chemotherapy drugs cannot identify the difference between cancer cells and healthy cells. Hence, some of the healthy cells are also damaged along with the cancer cells. Some of the side effects include reduced blood count, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, hair loss, diarrhea, constipation, skin irritation, etc. These could be short term or long term side effects of chemotherapy.

Managing Low Red Blood Cells

• Rest well and eat a balanced diet; otherwise anemia could cause fatigue
• Eat foods like green vegetables that are high in iron and folic acid
• Practice deep breathing techniques to avoid dizziness

Managing Low platelets

• Platelets help in blood clotting. Hence, they are important especially in case of bleeding after injury, etc to stop the excess flow of blood.
• To manage low platelet count, avoid medications like aspirin and ibuprofen.
• Do not blow your nose too hard, sneeze and cough loudly or strain during bowel movements as it might lead to bleeding.

Managing Mouth and Esophagus Problems

• The problems occur because chemotherapy has an effect on the digestive system, thus causing dry mouth.
• Regular brushing of teeth and flossing especially after meals is important
• Gargle with salt water, baking soda or a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.
• Moisten your lips with a lip balm
• Drink plenty of water and fluids
• Avoid lemon, citrus fruit juices, spicy food and other acidic foods

Managing Mouth Sores

• Eat bland food with a moderate temperature.
• Avoid dry food
• Have milkshakes, non-citrus fruits, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, puddings and gelatin.
• Use a topical anesthetic for mouth sores.

Managing Nausea and Vomiting

• It is essential to relax and take it easy as most people assume that they would have nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy; however, it depends on the drug used.
• Anti-nausea medications called antiemetics are available. You can use these medicines after consulting your doctor.
• Use certain relaxation techniques like deep breathing, self-hypnosis and meditation before and during the therapy.
• Have small, frequent meals and eat slowly.

Managing Constipation

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat high fiber foods like whole wheat and bran
• Exercise regularly as it relieves constipation
• Consult your doctor for laxatives if required.

Managing Diarrhea

• Drink plenty of water, apple juice and fluids rich in electrolytes to keep yourself hydrated.
• Eat small and bland meals.
• Avoid gas-producing foods like onions, cabbage, beans, artificial sweeteners, dietary supplements, etc.
• Eat foods high in potassium like oranges, peaches, bananas and baked potatoes.
• Use mild soap and water to wash your anal area and pat it gently to keep it dry.

Managing Skin Reactions

• Chemotherapy causes certain skin reactions like rash, itching, dryness or acne.
• Use hypoallergenic soaps, which maintain the skin’s pH and prevent dryness.
• Avoid alcohol-based perfumes, perfumed lotions, deodorants, etc.
• Pat cornstarch on the skin to relieve itching.
• Cover your head, arms and legs while going out to prevent sunburn as chemotherapy makes your skin prone to sunburn.

Managing Hair Loss

• Cut your hair short before the treatment begins as this reduces the weight on hair shaft.
• Use a baby brush when the hair begins to grow
• Use a baby shampoo or any other mild shampoo with a balanced pH.

Managing side effects of chemotherapy is essential. You may also take some chemotherapy support supplementary medicines to counter the side effects. The outcome of chemotherapy depends a lot on the amount and frequency of drugs; hence, if these two factors are reduced the outcome of the treatment could be compromised. Although side effects cause discomfort, fortunately there are many medicines and other home remedies to tackle them.