Your cancer may be overwhelming from a physical and emotional standpoint; however, there are steps you can take to get the support you need and take care of yourself prior to treatment procedures. Plan on resting, as this gives your body the chance to respond to the chemotherapy, and begin the recovery cycle. High-protein, high-calorie shakes often work well if you can’t bring yourself to eat regular meals. If … I'm not sure what to look forward to, what I need to do to make it smoother-for myself and my family. Stock up on healthy groceries. Ensure safe and easy venous access.. There are many different types of chemotherapy, says Lynne Bui, MD, from Regional Medical Center of San Jose. Other types of relaxation techniques that might help are hypnosis, massage, tai chi, music therapy, and aromatherapy. 2. If water tastes unpleasant to you, add flavor by putting in fresh fruit, cucumber slices, or mint leaves. Someone suggested that I use suntan lotion before and after treatment . Dr. Francisco C. Tang a.k.a Dr. Huang Nung Yang . Hello, I'm glad I've just found this network. Ask your oncologist about any possible side effects. Make sure you have picked up all your home medications from the pharmacy and that you understand how to take them. I don’t have any medical qualifications whatsoever, or indeed nutrition expertise, just a lot of lifetime (I’m 59 next birthday) passionate experience in Sport and Cooking. On the day before, it prepares your body for the dehydrating effects of treatment. Learn more about Nicole's journey through chemotherapy and breast cancer. It can also serve as a legacy of life to the dying individual's loved ones. In the 48 hours after treatment, small amounts of chemotherapy drugs will leave your body through urine, vomit, and other body fluids. This is to make sure you're able to get your chemotherapy treatment. Loved ones can help by cooking and freezing meals for your family ahead of time, volunteering to baby-sit, running errands, or just lending a hand around the house. Ask questions if something is unclear or causes you concern. Deck of cards. It might be tough to cook dinner or take care of the kids if you're dealing with side effects like fatigue or nausea. Weight loss apps can help you track lifestyle habits like calorie intake and exercise. Talk with your employer. Passing the time during treatment takes planning. Make sure the house is cleaned and picked up. Often your neutrophil count will determine whether or not you will receive chemotherapy … Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 1. Consider buying a wig. Chemotherapy is a common treatment for many people with cancer. Chemotherapy can be very taxing on the … Neutrophils are one type of WBC that fights infection. Most cancers are treated through radiation or chemo therapy, and there are specific steps you can take when preparing for any of the types of treatment. Then, make any necessary tweaks to your plan before your next appointment. To anyone that reads my story, please don't live in the "what-if's". There are many uncertainties when it comes to chemotherapy treatment for cancer. You or your partner should not get pregnant while you're having treatment, since chemotherapy drugs can damage sperm and cause birth defects. If you need any blood work or other tests, getting those done before chemo would be … Wondering what you can do to prepare for chemo? Plus you'll be able to better match your hair's natural color and texture. Studies show many people don’t get enough magnesium in their diets, and that’s a shame…, When those chompers start peeking out through your baby's smile, it's time to start an oral hygiene routine. A chemotherapy session may take only a few hours, but you might have side effects for days or weeks afterward. If you feel fuzzy brained … Preparing ahead for chemotherapy by writing down a list of questions and doing some of the activities above can be priceless. 5. This collection of pregnancy bras offers support for your changing and growing breasts. Before the start of my chemo, I was able to talk to many (Lymphoma) cancer patients in the OPD who recovered or who had remissions, that walking exercise is a must for building up stamina and for increasing resistance to fatigue. Stay well-hydrated by drinking lots of water or juice. I had been preparing for this race for nearly a year and ran my personal best. To make your life easier and more comfortable as you recover, think about how you’ll take care of yourself at home before you go in for treatment. Calming teas like peppermint. National Cancer Institute: "Chemotherapy and You. Being prepared may help you feel less unsettled about going to your first round. Treating any infections before you begin chemotherapy can help lower the risk of complications during treatment, as well as delays in treatment. 2. I agree that it is best to know what's coming up. Some good snacks include nuts, whole-grain crackers, hard cheese, hummus, granola bars, and fruit. My caregiver (finance) will be working during weekdays so I will be home by myself … Two days ago, I got my mediport and I'm going to start my chemo next Tuesday. Crossword puzzles or other activities. It started falling out around the 18th day following treatment. … I truly believe that God will only give us what […] Also, ask if there’s a refrigerator available for your use. Most facilities allow patients to bring at least one family member or friend with them to chemotherapy. Drink plenty of water during the days before your first session and afterwards. Chemotherapy (chemo) is the use of medicines or drugs to treat cancer. Equip yourself with knowledge Before you start your chemotherapy treatment, be it oral medication, IV infusions, ports, or any other method of delivery, do discuss the specific choice of drug, its side … The drugs can also stay in semen and vaginal fluids, so even if you take birth control pills, you should use condoms. All rights reserved. You may need additional check-ups prior to starting chemotherapy. On the hair issue, I would suggest now is the time to shave your head. The following have been voted the 3 most helpful responses to this question. Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. So, I have time to get organised and I have 3 weeks before chemo. So, get plenty of rest and avoid pushing yourself too hard, even if you feel … I had long hair when I was diagnosed but cut it into a short style right before chemo. Make sure you have plenty of food and nutritious drinks in your house. Most treatment areas are cold, so bringing a blanket is a good option since you will be attached to your chemotherapy infusion making removing and adding clothing difficult. Learn how to handle waste. Chemotherapy is the use of medications (many of them highly toxic) that either kill cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying. o File nails instead of cutting and avoid making nails too short. I have gone through your query and can understand your situation. Your companion can also be a good source of entertainment. C ancer is debilitating, but so is chemotherapy treatment. Here are…. You’ll likely be sitting or lying down for several hours, so loose, comfortable clothing is oftentimes best. … If you haven’t seen your dentist in the past 6 months, it’s a good idea to have a checkup before starting chemotherapy. Preparing for chemotherapy First, you may be told to show up a couple of hours early to get blood work drawn. Your oncologist may suggest you have a central venous catheter (CVC) inserted prior... See your dentist.. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The information in this article can help you prepare for your first treatment.Your chemotherapy teamIf you need chemotherapy… Arrange for help with meals and child care. Hydrate the day before (and the day after). Mouth sores are a common side effect, so it's smart to get dental work or cleanings before you start your sessions. Also, keep a mix of fruits, vegetables, and high-protein snacks like yogurt on hand. Some drugs raise your chance of having infections, so you should avoid picking up dog waste or cleaning litter boxes, bird cages, and fish tanks. Is that appropriate ?How serious will my burn be ?Is it necessary to have 6 weeks radiation therapy ? Chemotherapy is likely to disrupt your normal routine and family life. Posts: 9 Joined: Jun 2011 Jun 11, 2011 - 1:08 am. I effectively created my own in-house convenience store, stocked up with favorite foods to nourish me during the down days that I knew were coming. Drink half of it in an hour. 4) No gardening - No chemotherapy patient should be gardening or planting or otherwise contacting soil. ", MD Anderson Cancer Center: "Sexuality & Cancer.". But knowing what chemotherapy is, how it works, and what to expect can often help calm your fears. Knowing what to anticipate, even before your first session, can ensure that you’re ready and prepared for them. To help you remember your doctor’s answers, write down your questions and take notes during your appointments. If you decide against cold-cap therapy, don’t shave your head as soon as you find out you’re going to have chemo. Read any educational materials your oncologist has given you about your chemotherapy treatment and what to expect after you go home. White blood cells are made in the bone marrow and help fight against infection. The first three to five days after chemotherapy are usually the worst and you may not feel up to cooking or going out. Chemotherapy can be very dehydrating Drinking lots of water, green tea (unsweetened) or bone broth* can really help. Precook meals for yourself, children and anyone else who relies on you to cook. Dealing with cancer's diagnosis and treatment … ", University of California San Francisco Medical Center: "Coping with Chemotherapy. Preparing for Chemo - Setting up your house After five years and 7 different chemo treatments, 3 stereotactic radio surgeries for brain mets and recovery from a few hospital stays Ive learned how to set up my house so that I can pretty much take care of myself and dont have to disrupt my family too much. Work? It is very easy to count calories with help from website and apps. Family members and people who care for someone with cancer can also need information and support. Preparing for chemotherapy and surgery can seem overwhelming on top of getting diagnosed and wondering how your daily life will change. Learn about it, and if they tell you chemo attacks tumor cells, then consider skipping it. I will be finishing my 6 chemo therapy and I am scheduled for my radiation therapy and I have no idea what I will have to prepare for myself. You might just want to go home and take a nap or relax. I knew I needed to learn more about nutrition. Plan Ahead for Side Effects. Don't plan to go to any events or do activities in the hours after chemo. Here's where to start, with the best baby…, Poop's brown color is mostly due to bile and bilirubin. It is normal to feel worried or overwhelmed when you find out that you will be having chemotherapy. Taking care of someone getting chemotherapy –chemo for short - can involve helping to make treatment decisions, making medical appointments, driving to treatments, preparing meals, doing laundry and other chores, providing companionship, comfort, and support, and many other tasks. What is the after effect if I do not finish it all. It's when I get surprised that I find myself over-reacting. Both can stay in for the duration of your chemotherapy. Here are the 10 best weight loss apps to help you meet your…. Nobody knows exactly how they will respond to chemotherapy. But when I have an idea what to expect, I can get mentally prepared for the battle. Clear your schedule. How to Prepare for Chemotherapy. You should also ask about good oral care during chemo, like brushing with a soft toothbrush and using an alcohol-free mouth rinse. Eat well. Practicing yoga has been shown to be especially beneficial for cancer patients. 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