Maximizing Quality of Life

The side effects of cancer and/or its treatments can range from annoying to seriously debilitating. However, if managed appropriately, many of these negative physical effects can be reduced or eliminated. Here is a list of some common symptoms and side effects of cancer, and strategies to relieve them.

Fatigue
Fatigue is an overwhelming lack of energy that impairs your ability to do the things you normally do. If you are experiencing fatigue, you may feel weak all over, experience a loss of interest in enjoyable activities, or be unable to take care of the things you normally handle with ease. Fatigue is not usually relieved with adequate sleep or rest. It can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

Anemia. When you are anemic, you have a low red blood cell count. This may be caused by a deficiency in iron in the body, or by chemotherapy or the cancer itself, which may slow the production of red blood cells. If you are suffering from iron deficiency anemia, iron supplementation may help. If your body is not producing enough red blood cells, medications such as Procrit or Epogen may be helpful. Your doctor can help you determine whether these medications may be helpful for you.

Hypothyroidism. This is a condition in which a person does not have adequate amounts of thyroid hormone in his body, which can lead to fatigue. If you suffer from hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement medications may help you.

Depression. Fatigue is a common symptom of depression. This can often be easily treated with medication and/or counseling.

Infection. In some cases, an infection in the body can cause fatigue. If you have an infection, antibiotic therapy may be helpful.

If you are feeling fatigued:

• Don’t keep it to yourself. Let your doctor and your family know, so that they can help you overcome it.
• Rest when you need to. Your body is trying to heal itself, and the fatigue may be a sign that you need to take it easy for awhile.
• Do not overdo. Keep your schedule lighter than usual so that you have adequate time for rest.
• Eat well and drink plenty of water. You need adequate nutrition to overcome the disease, and the water will keep you well-hydrated while it helps your body eliminate toxins.
• Simplify your life.

Dry mouth
Dry mouth (xerostomia) is often the result of radiation therapy of the head and neck, or the side effect of some medications. Dry mouth can change the taste of food, affect speech, impair the ability to swallow, or cause oral discomfort. It is important to take steps to deal with dry mouth, because it can result in problems with the teeth and gums. If you have dry mouth:

• Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth at least four times a day.
• Keep water nearby so that you can moisten your mouth when it gets dry.
• Use toothpaste with fluoride.
• Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol.
• Avoid foods that are high in sugar.
• Rinse your mouth four times a day with a salt (1/2 tsp.) and baking soda (1/2 tsp.) mixture in 8 ounces of water.
• Use a prescription strength fluoride gel before bed.

Lymphedema
Lymphedema is the accumulation of fluid in the arms and legs caused by obstruction or impairment of the flow of the lymphatic system. This can be caused by surgery, blockage by a tumor, or radiation therapy. If you develop swelling in your arms or legs, call your doctor. It may indicate that you have an infection, which requires immediate care. The best way to deal with lymphedema is to prevent its occurrence by:

• Keeping skin well moisturized.
• Using an electric razor.
• Using insect repellents to prevent bites.
• Using sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
• Avoiding blood pressure readings, blood draws, or injection in the affected extremity.
• Maintaining your ideal weight.
• Elevating the affected extremity when you are sitting or lying down.
• Avoiding hot showers, baths, and hot tubs.
• For legs, not going barefoot, wearing comfortable shoes, and cutting your toenails properly.
• For arms, not carrying heavy objects, not wearing jewelry or a watch, and not getting a manicure on the affected side.

If you already have lymphedema:

• Keep the extremity elevated.
• Discuss the possibility of strength or flexibility exercises with your doctor or physical therapist.
• Look into compression stockings or bandages to reduce the accumulation of fluid.
• Lower your intake of salt and sugar.
• Look into manual lymphatic drainage performed by a certified therapist.

Nausea and vomiting

Does Marijuana Really Relieve Nausea?

Pain

You Don’t Have to Suffer: Pain Management Strategies

Different medications are used for different types of cancer.

Related Articles

TrackBack

TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://blog.healthra.com/cancer/symptom-management-strategies.htm/trackback
Listed below are links to weblogs that reference "Maximizing Quality of Life".