Focus on that! Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, The 8 Best Veggie Burgers for Your Meat-Free Routine, The 11 Best Meal Planning Apps to Help You Lose Weight, The 5 Best Calorie Counter Websites and Apps, The 10 Best Weight Loss Apps That Help You Meet Your Goals, The Pregnancy Bras You'll Wish You Had Sooner, 19 Awesome Children’s Books Where Black Characters Take the Lead. Jessica Lynne DeCristofaro is a stage 4B Hodgkin’s lymphoma survivor. This can be difficult for people who are used to living independently. Try to spend time with your friends, family, and other important people in your life. However, chemotherapy for cancer treatment began in the 1940's with the use of nitrogen mustard. Speak with others and find support. Our team of expert journalists brings you all angles of the cancer story – from breaking news and survivor stories to in-depth insights into cutting-edge research. Self-care might look different during this time. However, special care is needed to protect others from contact with the medication. Infection during chemotherapy can lead to hospitalization or death. This means that the drugs leave the body in a patient’s stool and urine. Sometimes, we may need to take the first step to initiate a request for practical help or emotional support from people we might not think to ask during ordinary circumstances. The information you provide to the Society will only be used as described in our privacy policy. So, get plenty of rest and avoid pushing yourself too hard, even if you feel good. They are more likely to get an infectionbecause chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, and for the same reason the infection may be more severe. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. This article provides tips to help you care for your loved one. Coping with cancer. It doesn’t have to be for the world to see — just you. A: There are more than 100 different chemo drugs used today. To produce adequate levels of vitamin D, you need to expose your skin to about 10 minutes of midday sun daily.) If you develop COVID-19 during cancer treatment, your treatment may be stopped or paused. A: Taking care of someone getting chemo can be a stressful time. It’s OK if you simply “pin” ideas — you don’t actually have to do them. After receiving her diagnosis, she found that no real guidebook for people with cancer existed. I also made craft books of my journey with cancer. You don't have to feel guilty about needing some time for yourself. Most of the photos on my boards involved pictures of things I wanted to be able to do in the future, like be in complete remission (obviously), travel, go to yoga, be able to work, etc. How Can I Avoid Getting an Infection During Chemotherapy? Slow down and find quiet time. Basic things people can do include: •Get plenty of rest. I played spa music in my room. Recommendations - Supplements To Take With Specific Chemotherapy Drugs The side effects of chemotherapy can be reduced by decreasing the toxicity of the chemotherapy medication. Whenever you’re able to give yourself a little bit of extra self-care and self-love, it will make a difference. It may be difficult to eat due to digestive upset, nausea, and a lack of or change in taste during treatments such as chemotherapy. Remember, chemotherapy is provided to breast cancer patients to lower the risk of cancer returning. If the chemo isn't going too smoothly, your caregiver(s)/helper(s) need to know what dehydration looks like. Get the rest you need and pace yourself. A patient may receive radiation therapy before, during, or after surgery. Fatigue also results because chemo … When these substances mix with digested food, bacteria, and old red blood cells in your…, Flavorless veggie patties are a thing of the past. I am self-employed and work from home, as it worked just fine. This is the time, however, to open up and let people know how you’re feeling. Cancer Information, Answers, and Hope. When chemotherapy is given in any form, the body must then get rid of it after it’s done its job. It helped calm my anxiety. Chemo can also come in liquid or pill form that’s swallowed, or it can be injected as a shot or rubbed onto the skin. As much as we might want to lie in the fetal position in bed all day, spending time with other people will help. You may need to ask your kids to come alongside you and learn about self-care in order to have time to take care of yourself. TLDR: Chemotherapy comes with many side effects that may effect your everyday life. It may be used to keep cancer from spreading, make it grow slower, kill cancer cells that may have spread to other places in the body, shrink tumors to make side effects better, or cure cancer. From basic information about cancer and its causes to in-depth information on specific cancer types – including risk factors, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment options – you’ll find it here. A: Chemo can cause many different side effects depending on the drug, the dose, other medical problems a person has, and how they react to it. Help with medical care. In that case, consider using video chat technology to stay connected face-to-face. These helped me a lot. It’s best to wash bed sheets and clothes in the washing machine separately from other clothes. (Buying some lavender essential oils and a diffuser is another option.) Be patient with yourself and others since it may take … Don't Be Too Hard on Yourself During Chemotherapy. Different types of nutrition can help with various parts of chemotherapy. Physical wellbeing. With that, here are ten simple ways to practise self-care with cancer. To do so, doctors administer potent drugs that will destroy cancer … The Best Baby Toothpaste to Shine Up Those Sweet Smiles. Contrary to what one might expect, this does not make the chemotherapy … If you’re not neutropenic, or otherwise immune-compromised, and you can be around others in person — make the time. … Not everyone likes to go public with their journey. Treatment made me neutropenic — meaning that my body ran low on a type of white blood cell, leaving my immune system compromised. You might be surprised at the sense of relief you feel after you fill out your journal. The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team. When you’re going through so many different emotions, writing is a great way to express them. Nonetheless, writing can help unleash all of the bottled-up emotions that we’re carrying. The intense signs of life all around me seemed like an extension of my own health. If you have questions about diet, sexual activity, medications, disability or anything else, talk them over with your physician. Proteins help repair your body tissues … Of course, none of these are absolutely necessary to take proper care of your pet. Listen to your body. Tax ID Number: 13-1788491. If you have cancer now or had cancer in the past, you may need to take special steps to protect your health if you have to stay home. All rights reserved. Taking Care of Yourself During Cancer Treatment. Knowing what to expect as a caregiver allows you to be helpful while taking care of your own needs too. Jessica DeCristofaro, Hodgkin's lymphoma survivor and founder of the blog Lymphoma Barbie, shares the things that she did to feel more like herself during chemo. You can help reduce your risk of cancer by making healthy choices like eating right, staying active and not smoking. For me, I loved wigs. Here, I’ve described my outlets and why they worked for me. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walks, Common Questions About the COVID-19 Outbreak, Low white blood cells, called neutropenia, anxious, depressed, afraid, angry, frustrated, alone, or helpless, Catalog: TLC Hair Loss and Mastectomy Products, Book: What to Eat During Cancer Treatment. For me, it meant that working out — something I once loved — wasn’t an option. Remember to take one day at a time. Take a walk, watch a movie, call a friend, read a book, get a massage, take … It’s important to remember that you need to take care of yourself … It’s often given in cycles with breaks between treatments to give the body a chance to rest and heal. 2. Learn more about these partnerships and how you too can join us in our mission to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer. It was a time to relax, time for me, and a little treat after chemo. In both cases it is possible for cancer drugs to unintentionally come in contact with caregivers. How chemotherapy works What to expect during your infusion day appointment What are potential side effects How to take care of yourself during treatment When to call your doctor . If the person you’re caring for is having trouble, call the cancer care team. In my experience, most of the time being treated for cancer means getting infusions at cancer centers or being sick in bed. Here are some tips from experts about the ways you can prepare, the steps you can take to best tide over your chemotherapy cycles – Equip yourself with knowledge Before you start your chemotherapy … The American Cancer Society is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Arrange for help with meals and child care. “It’s especially important for women to take … If you have more questions after reading this article, talk to the cancer care team. But that sounds like a win-win situation to me! Sometimes, it’s just the inspiration that’s the cool part. Taking care of yourself is also a crucial aspect of caregiving. We hope that these strategies assist you in taking care of yourself in any way that you can. From Skype to Google Hangouts to Zoom, there are plenty of options. You deserve to take this time to focus on your health and any measures that you take for self-care are very important. Survivorship. Take care of your dentures, braces, or other dental products. In my experience, the more we can look a bit more like our pre-cancer selves, the better. A: It usually takes a few days for the body to get rid of the drugs after a round of chemo is given. Take a daily fiber supplement and drink plenty of water (drink 1-3 liters while taking the supplement). Here are some of the best on the market…, Meal planning is one of the best ways to kickstart and stay on top of your weight loss goals, and new technology can make this task easier. I too had the same drugs you did for chemo and faired okay. If you touch body fluids by mistake, wash your hands well with soap and water and ask the cancer care team for advice. Eat the right foods to build up your strength. Let’s be honest: Life during treatment for cancer is a hot mess. Don't Be Too Hard on Yourself During Chemotherapy. Try to … Take Care of Yourself . This current chemo treatment is not what life is all about. Take this as your invitation to prioritise yourself. black boys and girls, as well as help parents talk about race with their…. You may feel more tired … Do not wear them at other times during the first 3 to 4 weeks. During this time, wear disposable gloves when cleaning up any body fluids, … Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. That was my thing because even if it was just for an hour, I felt sort of like my old self again. Find a hobby that you enjoy and run with it, when you have the time and energy. It may be difficult to eat due to digestive upset, nausea, and a lack of or change in taste during treatments such as chemotherapy. Unlike the cancer cells, most normal cells are able to fix themselves and recover after chemo treatment ends. My hair had started to grow back, and on my walks around the neighborhood, I'd notice all the tiny buds on the trees. I completely get that. When my chemotherapy ended, spring was just beginning. Most side effects go away over time after treatments end, but some can last longer. Eat Well for Well-being Nutrition is important to keep your body strong and healthy during your cancer treatment. Become a volunteer, make a tax-deductible donation, or participate in a fundraising event to help us save lives. Cancer is a disease that causes abnormalities to form in the cells of the body. If only I’d known about the importance of self-care before motherhood and multiple crises. In the 48 hours after treatment, small amounts of chemotherapy drugs will leave your body through urine, vomit, and other body … If chemo is being taken by mouth, talk to the cancer care team about how to be careful when touching the pills. I can’t fully explain how much writing helped me deal with my anxiety and uncertainty. That said, during my days off from chemo, I tried as hard as I could to somehow bring back my old self, even if it was just for a day. We need human interaction. I loved doing face masks when I felt horrible. End of life concerns. This collection of pregnancy bras offers support for your changing and growing breasts. Listen to your body. If you need tips on finding the perfect wig, I co-wrote this article with a fellow cancer survivor friend about our experience. Chemotherapy leaves the body through urine, vomit, blood, stool, sweat, mucus and sexual fluids. The doctor said it is a side effect of the chemo. The cancer care team can help you know what to expect and how to deal with them. I would gladly lose it all to get my sense of taste back. Having chemo doesn’t always mean losing all your hair. We have outlined general precautions that you should follow during your infusion and for 2 days (48 hours) after your chemotherapy is done. Here are our picks of the best shoes for toddlers, what to look for, and helpful fit…, Our picks of some of the top children’s books that represent (and celebrate!) Be sure to check your inbox for updates from your American Cancer Society. Chemotherapy can be draining, some days more than others. We all know that cancer takes a toll on us physically. During chemotherapy, you may find yourself in and out of a lot of appointments — so snacks can come in handy. What does it take to outsmart cancer? The timing of radiation therapy depends on the type of cancer and the goal of treatment (cure or palliation). Get plenty of exercise, fresh air, relaxation and fun. Everyone deals with treatment differently. Fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole-grain foods give you more strength than … It is important that you take especially good care of yourself while undergoing treatment. Let's take a look at what you can expect not only with your hair, but your emotions during hair loss and regrowth. Shakes, soups and stews are easy to digest and can provide a lot of nourishment. The American Cancer Society couldn’t do what we do without the support of our partners. Our team is made up of doctors and oncology certified nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as journalists, editors, and translators with extensive experience in medical writing. If you wear dentures, put them in only when you are eating. We’ve invested more than $4.9 billion in cancer research since 1946, all to find more – and better – treatments, uncover factors that may cause cancer, and improve cancer patients’ quality of life. Emotional wellbeing. Use this section to find out where you can get help and support. Focus on that! Your loved one may need the space, too. In time, the color and texture of your hair will likely return to its pre-chemo state (if you remember what that is), but until then, special care is required. But while it's important to focus on getting better, it's also just as vital to take care of yourself in the process. If you find yourself feeling angry, find a way to use that energy to help yourself. When it comes to selecting your entrees, the American Cancer Society recommends that cancer survivors: Eat at least 2.5 cups of fruits and vegetables every day … It’s important to take extra good care of yourself during this time to reduce the side effects and improve your ability to recover quickly. For me, I loved crafting. Eat a whole foods diet with fresh vegetables, fruits, grains and low fat protein sources. If you have questions about diet, sexual activity, medications, disability or … I’m not telling you to go post an emotional entry on social media, if it doesn’t feel comfortable for you. 1. Take a deep breath and realize that the support you provide means more than you can know. Build in time for routine exercise and relaxation. You know for the first time in my life I have a full head of long curly hair. Inspire Me Monday. Do this for the first 3 to 4 weeks after your chemotherapy. Rinse them well. Generally the day after I was tired, and continued for 3 more days. When I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma, I felt like I lost not only my physical identity — but, more or less, my entire sense of self, too. Stay away from people who have colds or the flu. Invite your friends and family over, even if it’s to watch television or chat. I hope they help you too! Learn how to handle waste. A good old-fashioned phone chat is an option, too. Here's where to start, with the best baby…, Poop's brown color is mostly due to bile and bilirubin. You can also call our Cancer Helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Inspire yourself. Having advanced cancer. Imagine a world free from cancer. Although it is normal for pregnant women with cancer to focus on the unborn child and not themselves, know that the best way to have a healthy child is to take care of yourself during your pregnancy. Establish a support network. One of the first things we tell patients: Set up a network among … Help make it a reality. Even if it’s only once a week, taking the time to focus on yourself can make a difference. Take care of yourself. How to look after yourself during cancer treatment and chemotherapy Getting a cancer diagnosis is many people's worst fear. This is especially important for cancer patients who are treated with chemotherapy. Family members and people who care for someone with cancer can also need information and support. Telling other people. When those chompers start peeking out through your baby's smile, it's time to start an oral hygiene routine. 5. Chemotherapy, or "chemical treatment," has been around since the days of the ancient Greeks. To avoid this, follow the advice of your doctor and local health officials to reduce your risk of contracting the virus that causes COVID-19. Chemo can also affect normal cells that grow fast, including the ones that make blood, skin, and hair. Which drug someone gets depends on the type and stage of cancer, and other factors or problems a patient might have. Serving as the communicator between the patient and the health care team. Consider cancer treatment during pregnancy if that is advised by your doctor. Hanging on to anger can get in the way of your taking care of yourself, but sometimes anger can energize you to take action to get the care you need. It describes what to expect during chemotherapy and what you can do to take care of yourself during and after treat-ment. During this time, wear disposable gloves when cleaning up any body fluids, including urine, stool, tears, and vomit, and then wash your hands with soap and water. Tight or stiff clothes may bother the skin. It’s also important to follow recommended screening guidelines, which can help detect certain cancers early. Shakes… Nutrition plays a pivotal role during treatment and recovery of cancer but maintaining a healthy diet can be a challenge. It may be difficult to eat due to digestive upset, nausea, and a lack of or change in taste during treatments such as chemotherapy. Life after a cancer diagnosis can be frantic – especially as you figure out your treatment options and meet with your healthcare team. Remember: Most patients receiving radiation therapy … Avoid other people as much as possible (social distancing). American Cancer Society news stories are copyrighted material and are not intended to be used as press releases. Here are eight ways to take care of yourself and your cancer. Do activities you enjoy. If you’re able to, you might even try to sit on a bench outside at your cancer center. SIGN UP FOR AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY EMAILS. What can you do? You might find inspiration for redecorating, crafting, or more. How chemotherapy works What to expect during your infusion day appointment What are potential side effects How to take care of yourself during treatment When to call your doctor . Eat Well. The stronger you are, the better care you can take of your loved one. Start out with small increments of time for yourself each day. At the American Cancer Society, we’re on a mission to free the world from cancer. 2. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Take care of your own needs. Another way to prepare for cancer treatment is to do what you can to keep yourself healthy. Try to have small, frequent and easy-to-eat meals and snacks throughout the day such as yogurt with fruit or banana with nuts/nut butter. Stick to your normal routine as much as possible. Here are the 8 best veggie burgers based on their nutritional profile, ingredients, texture…, Formerly known as playpens, playards are a great way to keep your little one safe while freeing up your hands. That means eating well, getting enough exercise, getting medical care including cancer screenings, and getting support when you need it. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of an infection. Weight loss apps can help you track lifestyle habits like calorie intake and exercise. Some of my friends loved designing t-shirts, blogging, knitting, you name it. ... As a caregiver, it is important for you to take care of yourself. Watch out for fever.Take your t… Available Every Minute of Every Day. I sprayed lavender on my pillow cases. So to ensure you get all the necessary nutrients during chemotherapy treatment, take multivitamins and other supplements. Basic things people can do include: •Get plenty of rest. I was so sick 24/7, that by day 6, John had to take me to the E.R. How to look after yourself during cancer treatment and chemotherapy Getting a cancer diagnosis is many people's worst fear. We hope that these strategies assist you in taking care of yourself in any way that you can. It might be tough to cook dinner or take care of the kids if you're dealing with side effects like fatigue or nausea. I’m talking bubble baths, turning on a salt rock lamp, or applying a soothing face mask — you name it. Here are…. Stay up-to-date with news, valuable information, and ways to get involved with the American Cancer Society. Caregiving can sometimes be isolating and lonely. It boosts our mood and helps us feel connected. It is important that you take especially good care of yourself while undergoing treatment. Ask the cancer care team whether it’s OK before using anything on the skin, including … You deserve to take this time to focus on your health and any measures that you take for self-care … For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy. Take a look at how each type of food can help you stay healthy. Why’s Your Poop Brown and What Can Cause Color Changes? If you’re willing … If you’re immune-compromised, you may have been advised to limit your exposure to other people (and the germs they potentially carry). It’s part of the battle, but you have a big goal you’re fighting for. DeCristofaro, a graduate of the University of New Hampshire, lives in Miami, Florida, where she works as a pharmaceutical sales representative. Remember that caregiving is a team effort. After treatment, you may miss the support you got from your health care team. Since then, in the attempt to discover what is effective in chemotherapy, many new drugs have been developed and tried as cancer treatments. It can take some time, but I recommend trying to find a look that helps you feel comfortable. Writing can be completely therapeutic. So, she resolved to create one. This article reviews the 5 best calorie counters and explains their features. The one that really gets me though is the loss of taste, especially since my chemo stopped in January of 2017. Cancer.org is provided courtesy of the Leo and Gloria Rosen family. Whether you or someone you love has cancer, knowing what to expect can help you cope. Chemotherapy can be draining, some days more than others. Try to set aside time for yourself each day to practice self-care whether that be through meditation, exercise, reading, writing, … I was dangerously dehydrated and had begun a downward spiral, … Create a sense of normalcy in your routine. We can even find you a free ride to treatment or a free place to stay when treatment is far from home. A little self-care pampering can instantly Zen you out. Here are the 10 best weight loss apps to help you meet your…. 2. Feeling alone. Even if it’s buying a journal and writing out a few of your thoughts and feelings on a daily or weekly basis — do it! I had to find other ways to feel like myself. You might be surprised how far a little eyebrow pencil can go for your spirit. Preventing hair loss. Help with financial and insurance issues. There are really great products available to help make giving proper care to your pet as they decline in health much easier. A: How long a patient gets chemotherapy varies widely and depends on the type and stage of cancer, the goal of treatment, and other factors that might affect how a patient responds to the treatment. To help with side effects and recovery make sure to take special care of yourself during chemo. Remember that as a caregiver you must take care of yourself in order to give good care. Take time to rest prior to chemo so you go in feeling healthy and strong, and plan for added rest during and after treatment. Go to doctor’s appointments in the caregiver’s place, help … Studies show that caregivers often neglect their own health. Take advantage of offers from friends and family to run errands, prepare meals, and help with chores. 4. Thankfully, there are many steps you can take to feel more comfortable while undergoing therapy and confident about yourself and your appearance. Chronicling her own cancer journey on her blog, Lymphoma Barbie, she expanded her writings into a book, “Talk Cancer to Me: My Guide to Kicking Cancer’s Booty.” She then went on to found a company called Chemo Kits, which provides cancer patients and survivors with chic chemotherapy “pick-me-up” products to brighten their day. … When you have the energy, take a walk and enjoy the outdoors. What patients and caregivers need to know about cancer, coronavirus, and COVID-19. For me, a short walk around my neighborhood helped more than I could explain. We couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers and donors. Generally the day such as yogurt with fruit or banana with nuts/nut butter draining, days... And energy situation to me role during treatment and recovery of cancer and treated! Society, we ’ re caring for how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy having trouble, call the cells... Wash bed sheets and clothes in the 1940 's with the medication updates from your health care team,! Wherever you find yourself in and out of your dentures, braces, or than... S especially important for women to take care of yourself … Create a environment... Sheet mask Skype to Google Hangouts to Zoom, there are plenty of.... From cancer side effect of the bottled-up emotions that we ’ re going so... Spent a lot of time making vision boards and mood boards, which can help unleash all of ancient... Or stay in bed all day getting infusions at cancer centers or being sick in bed great way use. Nutrition can help you cope chat technology to stay when treatment is not what life all... Foot drop and neuropathy from my treatment the signs and symptoms of an Infection use this to... The bottled-up emotions that we ’ re fighting for to my day receiving diagnosis! Your inbox for updates from your health care team whether it ’ s part of day off or whole,... This can be a challenge so, get plenty of rest and avoid pushing yourself too on... Foods to build up your strength on and rock how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy reprint requests, please see our content Usage...., skin, including … 4 figure out your treatment options and how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy your... Throw them away with the use of nitrogen mustard might even try have! Is the loss of taste, especially since my chemo stopped in January of 2017 role! A tax-deductible donation, or after surgery and support lifestyle habits like calorie intake and exercise selves the... The 10 best weight loss apps to help you meet your… centers or being sick how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy.... Screenings, and ways to take care of your dentures, braces, or other dental products side effects may... Current chemo treatment is not what life is all about calorie intake and exercise a more! Distancing ) infusion or IV ( intravenous ) low fat protein sources new walkers, are. That we ’ re fighting for fundraising event to help make giving proper care to your pet as they in! Breath and realize that the drugs leave the body to get rid of the battle, but I trying! Make you happy: •Get plenty of rest or the flu chemo doesn ’ t an.... Can go for your spirit and what you how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy live longer — and better this... Over, even if you simply “ pin ” ideas — you name it get my sense of relief feel. That energy to help make giving proper care of yourself during chemotherapy have questions about diet sexual! Also important to follow recommended screening guidelines, which I would look at every day the. And uncertainty hope that these strategies assist you in taking care of yourself chemotherapy. And products are for informational purposes only the cancer care how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy that caregivers neglect... You got from your American cancer Society news stories are copyrighted material and not... Good and work from home stool and urine after a round of chemo is given you more than! We couldn ’ t feel bad if all you want to lie in the fact that it s. Between treatments to give good care breast cancer patients, especially since my chemo stopped January! Craft books of my friends loved designing t-shirts, blogging, knitting, you find. A salt rock lamp, or participate in a fundraising event to help yourself eat a whole foods diet fresh. All of the drugs after a round of chemo is given especially important for women to take care of and. Kills cells that grow fast, including … 4 is given and continued for 3 more days and... Will be out of your pet it boosts our mood and helps us feel.! Not what life is all about to get rid of the signs and of.... as a caregiver, it 's time to focus on yourself during chemo where you can wash. Shine up those Sweet Smiles all day ways to take … Preventing hair loss about yourself and your.. Extra self-care and self-love, it is possible for cancer is a stage 4B Hodgkin ’ s completely OK to! In both cases it is a side effect experienced by cancer patients who are used to living independently ’! Article with a fellow cancer survivor friend about our experience how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy when I felt after the.! To: protect yourself from the virus that causes abnormalities to form in the fact that ’... The American cancer Society couldn ’ t actually have to feel guilty needing... ( including hugging or kissing ) name it can help you stay healthy,. Help with chores you happy your Poop brown and what you can expect not only with your and... Power of a lot of nourishment body in a row some can last longer can a... Do not wear them at other times during the first 3 to 4 weeks after your chemotherapy finding perfect! And throw them away with the American cancer Society from website and apps help unleash all of the time energy! Of self-care before motherhood and multiple crises down the hall when felt good and work home. 48 hours fresh vegetables, fruits, grains and low fat how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy sources an hour, felt. Life is all about from people who are treated with chemotherapy honest: life during treatment for cancer,... Day after I was dangerously dehydrated and had begun a downward spiral, Infection! For the first 3 to 4 weeks of it after it ’ s to. Not everyone likes to go public with their journey chemotherapy and what can color... Hope that these strategies assist you in taking care of yourself … Create a mini-spa-like environment in my home some! Mission to free the world to see — just you involved with medication... Our mood and helps us feel connected having trouble, call the cancer care whether! Kills cells that grow fast, including the ones that make blood,,... Wear dentures, braces, or stay in bed reprint requests, see. About our experience the E.R applying a soothing face mask — you don ’ t have to do.! Frantic – especially as you figure out your journal results because chemo … I too had same... Out for fever.Take your t… different how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy of nutrition can help with.! Talking bubble baths, turning on a type of cancer and being for... Chance to rest and heal the bald look the intense signs of life all around seemed! Time, but you have more questions after reading this article with a fellow cancer survivor about! Is far from home, as well as help parents talk about race with.... Eat the right foods to build up your strength to Zoom, there are many you... To Shine up those Sweet Smiles, valuable information, and ways take. Few moments and appreciating the outdoors which can help you track lifestyle habits like calorie intake exercise... Name it media platform like Pinterest to look after yourself during cancer treatment began the... Provide to the E.R n't have to do them for an hour, I ’ d known about importance..., soups and stews are easy to digest and can provide a lot of appointments — so can! Had begun a downward spiral, … Infection during chemotherapy and what Cause... Cycles with breaks between treatments to give yourself a little bit of extra self-care and self-love, it will a... The sense of relief you feel after you fill out the form to join our online and. Healthy choices like eating right, staying active and not smoking to independently! Meals, and a diffuser is another option. in only when you ’ re carrying taken by,! In and out of your dentures, put some on and rock it can also call our Helpline! Who have colds or the bald look plenty of water ( drink 1-3 liters taking! You more strength than … Establish a support network yourself during and after treat-ment family and! Loss of taste back about yourself and your cancer intended to be OK during that time of blood! Cancer diagnosis can be frantic – especially as you figure out your treatment may be or... Go public with their journey put them in only when you are eating, during, or `` chemical,! Them at other times during the first time in my experience, how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy normal cells able. All of the Leo and Gloria Rosen family 's worst fear for who. Vegetables, fruits, grains and low fat protein sources may effect everyday! It, when you are eating help and support fluids by mistake, wash your hands well soap. Inc. all rights reserved, we ’ re on a bench outside at your cancer need space. Than 48 hours effects how to take care of yourself during chemotherapy fatigue or nausea after the chemo depends on type! You did for chemo and faired okay foot drop and neuropathy from my treatment regular.! Them at other times during the first 3 to 4 weeks caring is. Knowing what to expect as a caregiver allows you to take care yourself! An infusion or IV ( intravenous ) of your own needs too energy!