Some of the common cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, are known to cause many negative and uncomfortable side effects. Since treatment is essential to either cure or control the disease, the side effects are often inevitable. The side effects, however, could be severe and hamper the routines of everyday life. Here are a few ways of coping with common cancer treatment side effects for chemotherapy and radiation:

1. Nausea and vomiting

Depending on whether one is suffering from anticipatory, acute, or delayed nausea and vomiting, doctors might suggest having water, ginger ale, or fruit juices and anti-nausea medications like antiemetics to manage it. Sometimes, acupuncture, a positive attitude towards cancer treatment, deep breathing or meditation, visualization techniques, listening to music, or reading a book can also help ease this side effect.

2. Shedding or gaining weight

A nutritionist can guide one to eat the ideal food, the right quantities, and at the right times of the day. For example, patients will be educated about the following—whether or not to eat before cancer treatment; how much liquid must be had to prevent dehydration; what foods to eat to feel healthy and regain energy but not put on unnecessary weight; whether the appropriate quantities of proteins, vitamins, and minerals are consumed; and how to eat small meals throughout the day. Moreover, progesterone hormones, steroid medications, and intravenous nutritional therapy may be suggested for those patients who need to gain weight. On the other hand, maintaining a food diary to make note of eating patterns and avoiding deep-fried and sugary foods may also help prevent weight gain. A moderate level of physical activity every day, such as walking, cycling, or swimming could help all patients with cancer keep fit.

3. Neutropenia and anemia

Neutropenia is a decrease in the number of white blood cells that defend the body against infection, and anemia is a decrease in the number of red blood cells that supply oxygen throughout the body. These conditions are both common after chemotherapy. Practicing good personal hygiene and having appropriate antibiotics are two ways to prevent infections caused by neutropenia. Anemia can be managed by having erythropoiesis-stimulating agents if prescribed by the doctor, saving energy for meaningful activities, eating folic acid and iron-rich foods, and getting enough rest.

4. Sleep problems

Amongst other things, a peaceful sleep during night time is necessary to help strengthen the immune system of patients with cancer. However, insomnia, hypersomnia, and having nightmares are side effects of cancer treatments:

• Insomnia: Not sleeping during the day time, making the bed comfortable and the room cozy and dark, reducing the use of electronic gadgets at sleep time, and having supper well ahead of bedtime are a few other ways that could help overcome insomnia.
• Hypersomnia: Changing a particular medication or adjusting its dosage, having a fixed sleeping and waking routines, following an exercise routine or pursuing enjoyable hobbies early in the morning or late afternoon to break the pattern of excessive sleepiness, avoiding heavy meals, alcohol, and caffeine can help manage hypersomnia.
• Having nightmares: Discussing or verbalizing fears and anxieties about being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment with a close, trusted friend or relative, or a professional counselor could help reduce nightmares.