Colon Cancer : In Depth - Managing Side...
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When you are being treated for colorectal cancer, it's likely you will have side effects from that treatment. That's because treatments to destroy cancer cells can harm healthy cells at the same time, so your body may have a reaction. You may also have symptoms of the disease to deal with. For instance, if the tumor puts pressure on an organ or body part, you may feel pain. Or the tumor could interfere with your normal bowel functions.
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Getting the best results from your treatment is important. But your quality of life also matters. Your healthcare team is there to help you manage your symptoms as well as to treat your cancer. Let your doctor and nurse know if you are experiencing any side effects or discomfort. Make sure to tell your doctor or nurse how these problems affect you from day to day.
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Dealing with feelings will get easier the more you learn about your disease. Asking for support from others will help, too. Ask your doctors, nurses, and other health professionals when you have questions. A social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist, or clergyman may also be a good person to talk with. Friends and family can help if you tell them what's on your mind. It's also helpful to get in touch with others who have had cancer. In support groups, people share what they have learned about cancer and its treatments. Here are some other ways to find support.
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As it is difficult to keep healthy cells safe while trying to destroy cancer cells, most cancer treatments have side effects.
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Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to treat your cancer. From the moment you found out you had cancer, you most likely have had questions about treatment. You are not facing cancer treatment alone. Loved ones, support groups, and counseling can help you. Keep a list of any questions you have for your radiation therapy team. Ask these questions during your visits, or call if you need to. And use the resources below for information.
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Radiation therapy can help you in your fight against cancer. To feel better, get plenty of rest, exercise, and eat well. This will give your body the extra strength it needs right now. Also, look to family and friends for support and comfort.
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Having side effects of radiation therapy does not mean that your cancer is getting worse or that therapy isn't working.
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TIP: Ask a family member or friend to give you some help applying lotion in hard-to-reach spots.
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Chemotherapy can make your blood less able to clot. This happens because the treatment reduces the number of platelets (clotting agents) in your blood. As a result, your risk of bruising and bleeding increases. To help prevent problem bleeding, use the tips on this handout.
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You develop mouth sores Mouth pain keeps you from eating Mouth sores (stomatitis) and dry mouth are common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These side effects occur because these treatments affect normal cells as well as cancer cells. Using the tips on this handout may help you feel better.
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During chemotherapy, the energy provided by a healthy diet can help you rebuild normal cells. It can also help you keep up your strength and fight infection. As a result, you may feel better and be more able to cope with side effects. Ask your doctor about your nutrition needs.
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Minor skin problems are common side effects of chemotherapy. These side effects occur because the treatment affects normal cells as well as cancer cells. To manage these side effects, try the tips on this handout.
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Chemotherapy can reduce the number of red blood cells in your body. When you have too few of these cells, anemia can result. Anemia has many symptoms. Talk to your health care provider if you have any of the signs listed here. You may need treatment.
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Diarrhea (loose stools) is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Diarrhea results when treatment affects the normal cells lining the intestine. To help limit this problem, try the tips on this handout.
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Fatigue is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It can be caused by worry, lack of sleep, and poor appetite. Fatigue can also be a sign of anemia (a shortage of red blood cells). This could require medical treatment. The tips below can help you feel better.
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Chemotherapy can make your body less able to fight off infection. This happens because treatment reduces the number of white blood cells (infection fighters) in your body. To help prevent infections, try the tips on this handout.
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Nausea or vomiting lasts for 24 hours or more You have trouble keeping fluids down
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Now that you are facing treatment for cancer, you may have concerns that you want to share. If you do want to talk, you may not know how to start. These ideas may help.
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