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It is hard to limit the effects of treatment so that only cancer cells are removed or destroyed. Because treatment also effects healthy cells and tissues, it often causes side effects. Doctors and nurses can explain the possible side effects of th...
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Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to treat your cancer. American Cancer Society (ACS) 800-227-2345 www.cancer.org;Cancer Information Service 800-422-6237 www.nci.nih.gov;CancerNet www.cancernet.gov (has information in Spanish)
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TIP: Ask a family member or friend to give you some help applying lotion in hard-to-reach spots. Dryness;Itching;Redness;PeelingAvoid sun on the irradiated area because your skin is already sensitive.;Keep reference marks visible by letting the sh...
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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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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. If you d...
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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 treatme...
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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, us...
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You develop mouth sores;Mouth pain keeps you from eatingRinse with 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in a glass of water. This helps keep your mouth free of germs.;Use products that coat and protect the mouth and throat. Or use medications that coat and so...
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Minor nail 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. Darkened;Brittle;Cracked;Marked w...
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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 doc...
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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. Use baking soda. Add it to your b...
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Constipation (difficulty passing stool) is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Constipation can be caused by the medications you are taking. It can also occur if you're not getting enough exercise and nourishment. Fluids ar...
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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. Limit the amount of fib...
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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 tip...
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Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It occurs because these treatments affect normal cells as well as cancer cells. Not all types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy cause hair loss, but if it does happen, th...
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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. Keep your hands c...
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Nausea or vomiting lasts for 24 hours or more;You have trouble keeping fluids downIf you have medications to control nausea, take them before meals as directed.;Avoid fatty or greasy foods while nauseous.;Eat small meals slowly throughout the day....
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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. Don't pressure the person to talk. Just make it known that you are willing t...
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