SHARES
Everyone dreads hearing the news “you have cancer’ and the word chemotherapy! The day you learn that it is going to be part of the cancer treatment must be truly a horrible day.
Although chemotherapy, a drug treatment to kill fast-growing cancer cells, is effective, it is also identified with feared side effects of varying severity. Some people may also suffer disturbing side effects that may last days to weeks after the session. Hence, it is understandable to be fearful towards it.
Generally, from observations, patients who start chemotherapy before they are ready, are at a higher risk of suffering from side effects and defaulting treatment. Hence, initiate chemotherapy only when you feel you can commit wholeheartedly without any regrets. Planning ahead can help to ease some stress and anxiety of starting on the therapy.
Practical tips to get mentally prepared for Chemotherapy
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Anticipate side effects
Talk openly about expectations and fears prior to starting chemotherapy. Clarify doubts with your doctor if it helps to soothe your anxiety. Expect side effects and prepare to handle the side effects. For instance, if chemotherapy will result in hair loss, consider cutting your hair short or shaving it bald to make hair loss less dramatic. Alternatively, wearing a wig, a hat or a scarf until your hair grows back can also help with self-image. Besides that, if the treatment could lead to infertility, consider freezing your sperms or eggs for future use.
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Get support at workplace
As most chemotherapy is done in an outpatient setting, patients can go home after the infusion is over. Hence, some people will opt to work around their sessions, while others choose to take time off to recuperate. Whichever the case, make arrangements with your boss and colleagues to help them understand your need to take time off or for flexible scheduling while you receive chemotherapy.
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Plan for meals, house chores & child care
The unpleasant side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea or fatigue, may make household chores difficult. Do prepare for back-ups, such as freezing meals ahead of time or subscribing to meal delivery services. Ahead of the sessions, stock up on healthy food items such as vegetables, fruits and high protein snacks. Having a close friend or family member stay in to help with babysitting, house chores or errands also lift some burden off while you recuperate.
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Get accompanied to treatments
Again, having a close friend or family member alongside to accompany and provide emotional support can make chemotherapy less intimidating, especially if it is your first session. It can be hard to predict your body’s response after the session as you may feel too tired to drive yourself home. Therefore, having someone to count on can help you focus on getting treated.
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Bring a “comfort bag”
Pack items that can make you feel better during the session, such as your favourite sweater, reading materials, snacks and drinks. Preparing a special playlist can help to elevate your mood as well. All in all, do whatever it takes to make yourself comfortable during the long chemotherapy session.
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Dental care
A common side effect is mouth sores, so do visit your dentist for a dental check as well as any necessary dental work before you start chemotherapy. Also, ask your dentist for advice, such as brushing with a soft brush or use of mouth wash in anticipation of oral health side effects.
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Set aside time to rest
Free up the hours after chemotherapy to allow yourself time to rest or relax at home. Receiving treatment can be tiring. Hence, manage your energy in a meaningful way that would still allow you to rest, eat, socialise and work. Always listen to your body and slow down when necessary.
Conclusion
Chemotherapy can be a long, arduous and taxing journey. Therefore, getting mentally ready before starting is crucial to ensure commitment until the end of the treatment. If you or your loved ones have concerns regarding cancer or chemotherapy, consult a doctor today.
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by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.
