Remedies for Side Effects
Dental health
Visit a dentist to check your mouth’s health before and after treatment in case there are any changes in your teeth.
Edema
If your feet and hands are swollen, reduce salt intake, wear compression devices, take diuretics, exercise and elevate affected area.
Joy of eating
Try not to confuse the joy of eating with nourishment. Make sure you eat delicious, balanced meals with an occasional indulgent treat.
Low blood cell count
Be extra careful about cooking food thoroughly and making sure the kitchen is sanitary, and follow advice to avoid infections.
Mouth sores
If it is hard to eat solid or acidic foods, try smoothies made with ice cream, protein powder and fruits such as bananas. If you have trouble swallowing, try taking sips of water while you eat.
Nausea
Try ginger tea, or have smaller, more frequent meals (five to six a day).
Skin irritation/rash
Use mild unscented soaps, avoid sun exposure and keep skin moisturized.
Weight changes
Although small weight changes are normal, do your best to stay at a healthy weight. To avoid excessive weight gain, stay physically active. To avoid excessive weight loss, try adding Ensure to milkshakes.
Dry mouth
• Brush your teeth after each meal
and at bedtime
• Suck on ice, popsicles or lemon
drops
• Use a cool mist humidifier to
moisten room air
• Rinse your mouth (don’t swallow) with salt and baking soda four to six times a day (1/2 tsp. salt, 1⁄2 tsp. baking soda, 1 cup of warm water) • Moisten foods with broth, sauces, butter and dressings and avoid dry foods
Thick saliva
• Avoid foods that stick to the roof
of your mouth
• Drink small sips of water or tea
often
• Eat/drink warm liquids (soup, hot
chocolate, etc.)
• Be cautious with milk products
Avoid infections
• Wash your hands often before you cook or eat, after restroom use and after being in a public place
• Stay away from those who are sick • Wash raw fruits and vegetables
very well
• Stay away from people with recent
vaccinations
• Avoid pet-related clean-ups
• Keep area around catheter clean
and dry
• Do not squeeze your pimples • Remove bandages after a blood/ port draw once bleeding has stopped completely
Cancer treatment strives to destroy the harmful cells in your body and can cause uncomfortable side effects. The following tips may help you cope.