Coping With Side Effects From Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatments continue to improve and become more targeted to each specific cancer. In fact, advances in medical and surgical research over the past decade have led to a decline in cancer deaths and improved responses to treatment.

Today, people living with cancer have more treatment options than ever before. And although cancer side effects are still common and challenging, they are improving.

“When a patient begins cancer treatment, they usually have concerns about the potential side effects,” said Monica Lee, APRN, FNP-C at Supportive Care Cancer Clinic at Franciscan Health. “They want to know what to expect and how to live and thrive throughout their journey.”

Lee is quick to remind the individuals and families she sees at the Supportive Cancer Care Clinic that everyone’s cancer experience is different.

“We focus on optimizing the quality of life for all our patients,” said Lee. “We also know and understand what effects an individual may experience.” This allows the team to better prepare cancer patients and help them manage and even prevent many common side effects of cancer treatment.

Understanding Cancer Treatment And Possible Side Effects

The cancer care team at Franciscan Health works closely with patients and families to educate them about their specific treatments and work to prepare them for what possible side effects they may experience.

“Cancer treatment may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation or surgery,” said Lee. “Each offers a different approach to fighting cancer cells and may have different side effects. Your cancer care team will spend time discussing your treatment and what you can expect.”

Lee also cautions patients against assuming the cancer treatment side effects a friend or family experienced will have a similar impact on them.

“Everyone is different,” she said. It’s important to talk with your doctor, nurse or care coordinator about what you might expect.

Another great resource for patients is the nursing team. Nurses can answer questions and help you proactively prepare for any symptoms or side effects – another important step in thriving during cancer treatment.

Be Proactive, Communicate About Side Effects

The reality is that you will likely experience side effects from your cancer treatment. Lee encourages her patients to be proactive and communicate any concerns or changes to their care teams.

“Our patients are very heroic and can fail to report how they are feeling or any side effects to cancer treatment,” said Lee. “Often, they think they can fight these side effects on their own. Our goal is to get them to finish treatment. When they report symptoms, we can adjust what we’re doing to manage them and help them lessen the burden of side effects.”

Common Side Effects From Cancer Treatments

Cancer treatments can affect individuals very differently. Lee shares some of the most common side effects of cancer treatment she helps patients manage and offers a few tips to help you feel better.

Fever

A fever can be the first sign of a possible infection. You will be asked to monitor your temperature closely and call the doctor or nurse if it reaches 100.5 degrees or higher.

Nausea and Vomiting

Today, cancer patients are prescribed anti-nausea medication to take at home as well as prescribed before infusions. This helps reduce nausea and vomiting. If the anti-nausea medicine doesn’t bring relief, Lee encourages patients to call their doctor so they can try another medication or other strategies.

Diarrhea

Over-the-counter medicine, like Imodium, can help manage diarrhea caused by treatments. It is important to call the doctor if you experience more than three loose stools in one day so you can avoid becoming dehydrated.

Fatigue

Fatigue during cancer treatments can ebb and flow, depending on where you are in your treatment cycle. Still, be sure to discuss your energy levels with your care team. You may need to have your blood checked for anemia or take a B12 vitamin to boost your energy.

Hair Loss

Hair loss during cancer treatments is a sensitive subject. Knowing if you may lose your hair can help you be prepared and feel empowered if it happens.

Skin Care

Your care team will provide you with specific guidance on how to best care for your skin and warning signs (like brittle nails, skin rashes, among others) based on your cancer treatment.

Sexual Function

Your sexual health is an important part of your overall health. Lee encourages her patients to ask questions about sexual relationships during treatment or problems with sexual function.

Weight Changes

Cancer treatment can sometimes cause your weight to fluctuate. Some medicines may cause weight loss, while others, like steroids, can cause weight gain. Your care team will let you what you can expect.

Nail Changes

Changes to your nails from cancer treatments may include dark areas in the cuticle, over-pigmented nails, nail loss, and ridges and lines in the nails.