how to make a good descion about your chemo treatment

To make a reasonable treatment decision, keep in mind the type of cancer you have, its stage, what treatment options are available and how likely these treatments are to work under these circumstances. Talk to your doctor about trustworthy websites, books and patient education materials to supplement your discussions.

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How can I cope with chemo treatment?

Going through chemotherapy is tough, so look to your family, friends and your care team for support. The doctors and nurses will do everything they can to make you comfortable. But it’s important that you ask questions and voice concerns, so they can help. 6. Keep things around that bring you comfort

How do I make cancer treatment decisions?

Step 1: Set your ground rules. Before exploring treatment options, establish some ground rules. You'll be more comfortable with any cancer treatment decisions you make if you: Decide how much you want to know. While most people want to know exactly what their treatment is and their survival chances, others don't.

Can other treatments be used in conjunction with chemotherapy?

Cancer treatments are sometimes used in conjunction with each other. For example, it's common to pair surgery or radiation with chemotherapy. Doctors sometimes refer to a treatment that's used after the primary treatment as an adjuvant therapy.

What happens to your body during chemo treatment?

Headaches are common occurrences during treatment, and many can be linked to a lack of hydration. You’re ingesting your chemo cocktails, but in order to avoid to a hardcore chemo hangover, fill your body with H2O. Water will help flush those nasty toxins through your body. And just when you think you’ve had enough, drink more. 6.

How do you make a chemo decision?

Some aspects you'll want to consider for each treatment include:Side effects. Take time to review the side effects of each treatment and decide whether they'll be worth enduring or too much to handle. ... How treatment affects your life. ... The financial costs of treatment. ... Your health in general.

Why does chemo get worse with each treatment?

Most types of pain related to chemotherapy get better or go away between individual treatments. However, nerve damage often gets worse with each dose. Sometimes the drug causing the nerve damage has to be stopped. It can take months or years for nerve damage from chemotherapy to improve or go away.

What are the best things to do during chemotherapy?

10 chemotherapy tips from cancer patients who've been thereGet some rest. ... Stay hydrated. ... Eat when you can. ... Create a sense of normalcy in your routine. ... Look to your support and care teams to have your back through treatment. ... Keep things around that bring you comfort. ... Stay ahead of your nausea. ... Stay positive.More items...•

How do you stay positive during chemotherapy?

Here's some of the best advice I've gleaned about staying positive during my cancer treatment:You are your best advocate. ... Take good notes. ... Focus on the things you can control. ... Don't confine your conversations to health topics. ... Appreciate your loved ones. ... Develop a good support network. ... Never give up.

How many days after chemo Do you feel sick?

Acute nausea and vomiting happens within a few minutes to a few hours after you get chemo. It is usually worst during the first 4 to 6 hours after treatment and goes away within 24 hours. Delayed nausea and vomiting usually does not start until 24 hours or more after you get chemo. It can last for several days.

Is the first week of chemo the worst?

For most people the side effects were worst in the first few days after treatment, then they gradually felt better until the next treatment. Some said the effects were worse with each successive treatment. Most side effects don't persist and disappear within a few weeks after the end of treatment.

Does drinking water help flush out chemo?

Chemotherapy can be dehydrating. Drinking plenty of water before and after treatment helps your body process chemotherapy drugs and flush the excess out of your system.

How do you feel after first chemo treatment?

The most commonly reported side effect after receiving chemotherapy is fatigue. 7 Give yourself time for extra rest and sleep in the days after a session. Tell your healthcare provider if your fatigue begins to affect your ability to function or complete basic tasks, like bathing.

How many rounds of chemo is normal?

During a course of treatment, you usually have around 4 to 8 cycles of treatment. A cycle is the time between one round of treatment until the start of the next. After each round of treatment you have a break, to allow your body to recover.

How do you stay hopeful in difficult times?

How to Stay Optimistic During Hard TimesSay “for” instead of “to” ... Keep a gratitude journal. ... Treat yourself. ... Keep an open mind and perspective. ... Surround yourself with loved ones. ... Allow yourself to have bad days. ... Make a list of the things you can manage. ... Spend time in nature.More items...

What foods should be avoided during chemotherapy?

Avoid citrus, spicy, and strong minty flavors. Avoid dry and sharp foods such as toast, crackers, and chips. Suck on ice chips, popsicles, or frozen fruit. Some chemotherapy medications cause cold intolerance, so avoid this if you have been told to skip very cold foods.

Does Chemo make you short tempered?

It's normal to still feel angry, tense, or sad after treatment. These feelings may go away over time. If these emotions feel overwhelming, you could be experiencing anxiety or depression. Start by talking to your doctor about options.

What are the treatments for cancer?

These options may include: Surgery. Radiation therapy. Chemotherapy. Hormone therapy. Targeted therapy. Immunotherapy. Active surveillance, also called watchful waiting.

What happens after cancer diagnosis?

After a cancer diagnosis, people with cancer and their families have to make a number of decisions about treatment. These decisions are complicated by feelings of anxiety, unfamiliar words, statistics, and a sense of urgency. But unless the situation is extremely urgent, take time to research your options, ask questions, ...

Is cancer care expensive?

The cost of cancer care is often high, and you may have expenses that you were not expecting. Your health care team can help you identify costs related to your treatment options or suggest ways to manage medical and related costs.

Can you get a second opinion from another oncologist?

Many people seek a second or even third opinion from another oncologist, and many doctors encourage it. Different oncologists may have different experiences with various treatments. So seeking multiple opinions can help you make a decision or confirm your current treatment plan. First check with your insurance company to find out if your policy covers a specific doctor or health care system.

Can cancer cause long term side effects?

Sometimes cancer can cause long-term side effects, or late effects, that might develop months or even years after treatment. Talk with your health care team about the possible long-term effects of each treatment option and how they are managed. In addition, discuss possible sexual or reproductive concerns with your health care team, including the risk of not being unable to have children. You have more options to keep your fertility if you address this concern before treatment, instead of waiting until after treatment.

Quality of Life

Quality of life isn’t just an abstract good; it’s something thinkers and policy-makers attempt to quantify and measure. Analysis of treatment strategies and questions of whether new drugs should be approved or paid for often affects expected effect on life quality.

ASCO Guide

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)’s Value in Cancer Care Task Force says the focus for evaluating the quality of care should be clinical benefit (efficacy), toxicity (safety), and cost (efficiency). The people who put out clinical trials don’t always break things down like this.

Tools and Guides

The professional organization American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has a Value in Cancer Care Task Force which attempts to define value in cancer care by emphasizing three elements: clinical benefit (efficacy), toxicity (safety), and cost (efficiency).

Warnings

If serious problems or risks are found in the clinical trials process, the new drug is usually not approved. An exception may be made if the drug is judged to have very high value.

Making Treatment Decisions

Find out how your cancer care team determines treatment options and schedules, and what you should consider when making decisions about treatment.

Managing Your Treatment

Some people may manage parts of their cancer treatment at home. Learn about the special equipment you might need, and find out what you need to know about safely getting treatments at home. You'll also find resources to help you track side effects and medications.

Personal Health Manager

It can be hard to keep track of all the information that you get about your diagnosis and treatment. But keeping this information organized can help you feel less stressed and more prepared to talk with your doctor. The American Cancer Society Personal Health Manager can help.

How to get rid of low energy after chemo?

2. Stay hydrated. Diarrhea, vomiting and other chemotherapy side effects can cause you to become dehydrated. Not only can this cause you to have low energy, but it can also cause other health issues. So, be sure to drink plenty of water during your treatment. Decaffeinated tea, juices and milk can also help.

How to get back to normal after chemo?

1. Get some rest. Fatigue is the most common side effect experienced by cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy. So, get plenty of rest and avoid pushing yourself too hard, even if you feel good. Be patient with yourself and others since it may take some time to get back to your regular energy levels.

Why is it important to eat when you have chemo?

Eat when you can. Chemotherapy can cause nausea and appetite loss, so it’s important to eat when you can to avoid becoming malnourished. Keep in mind that many foods may taste different as you go through treatment. For some patients, food may have a metallic aftertaste during and after chemotherapy. 4.

How long do you stay in bed after chemo?

You’ll get lots of good advice, your experience with chemotherapy won’t necessarily be the same as that of another patient. Some people may want to stay in bed for days after chemotherapy, while others can go about their normal routine within a few days. And some patients lose their hair quickly, while others keep their hair longer – or don’t lose it at all.

How long does it take for hair to fall out after chemo?

Most cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy experience hair loss, usually starting around seven to 21 days after the first treatment. For some, hair falls out gradually, while others wake up with big clumps on their pillow. But whether you lose your hair depends on the type and dosage of chemotherapy you’re receiving.

What to do when you're nauseous?

Sitting outside and getting some fresh air may also provide a little nausea relief. Popsicles, mints and gum may, too.

How to make an appointment at MD Anderson?

Request an appointment at MD Anderson online or by calling 1-877-632-6789.

How to make friends during chemo?

You’ll make more friends that way. Whatever you do, avoid tuna. Your new friends will thank you. 5. Pack water: Like a camel, quite literally pack loads of water. You’ll want to stay as hydrated as possible during chemo. Headaches are common occurrences during treatment, and many can be linked to a lack of hydration.

How to avoid chemo hangover?

You’re ingesting your chemo cocktails, but in order to avoid to a hardcore chemo hangover, fill your body with H2O. Water will help flush those nasty toxins through your body. And just when you think you’ve had enough, drink more. 6. Bring music: Make sure your headphones and iPod are tucked neatly in your carry-on.

What to wear to chemo?

If the latter is true, wear your sweatpants to chemo. Be sure to keep your port accessible and wear clothing accordingly. V-neck shirts are a staple in infusion centers. 2. Wear socks and/or close-toed shoes: Hospitals and treatment centers are notoriously cold.

Can you have candy with chemo?

Dry mouth can be a side effect from treatment and having candy may alleviate your woes. Ginger candies are the two-in-one go to for many. While they fulfill the sweet tooth, they combat nausea as well. Lemon drops are also a fan favorite. Though the cocktail is quite refreshing, in this case, the candy is the healthier option. Mixing alcohol and chemo has never been a good idea.

What do I want and need to know?

Before starting chemotherapy, you need to ask yourself how much you want to know about your treatment. Even if you don’t want to know every detail, understanding your treatment plan and possible side effects can help you take better care of yourself and feel more in control. Questions to ask your care team include:

How Chemotherapy Affects Your Emotions

Chemotherapy, and cancer treatment in general, can bring huge changes to your life. It can affect overall health, disrupt day-to-day schedules, and put a strain on your personal life. It is not uncommon to be scared, worried, angry, or depressed. These emotions are normal, but challenging.

What can I do to make the chemotherapy visit more comfortable?

It may be helpful to have a friend or family member drive you to and from treatment and to keep you company during the infusion.

How can I make my daily life easier?

Here are some tips to help make life easier while you are getting chemotherapy:

How to reduce side effects of chemotherapy?

Eat nourishing food, drink lots of water, get enough sleep, and balance rest and physical activity. Good nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce some chemotherapy side effects. If you smoke, try to quit. For support, call the Quitline on 13 7848 or visit iCanQuit.

How to prepare for chemotherapy?

Freeze some meals. You may not feel like cooking during the weeks of your chemotherapy treatment. Consider making some meals ahead and freezing them or have ready-to-eat food available (e.g. tinned fruit, yoghurt, soup). Sometimes, family and friends will arrange a meal roster.

What to put in chemo bag?

A bag for your chemo sessions could include warm clothing in case you get cold; healthy snacks; lip balm; and something to pass the time, such as books, magazines, crossword puzzles, music with headphones, or a laptop computer or tablet.

Can you have your teeth checked before chemo?

The dentist can check for any decayed teeth that may cause issues if they need to be removed while you’re having chemotherapy.

Does chemotherapy affect fertility?

Some types of chemotherapy can affect your fertility. Whether you are a man or a woman, if you think you may want to have children in future, talk to your specialist about your options before chemotherapy begins.

What happens after you stop cancer treatment?

For instance, after you stop treatment, a new drug may come to the market, a clinical trial could open, or you may hear of a doctor who has a new way of treating the cancer you have. If so, you can always decide to start treatment again. No matter what you choose, your health care team can provide emotional and physical comfort and care along ...

What to do if you are depressed?

If you’re depressed, you may lose focus on your goals. Before you decide, speak to a counselor, ask your doctor about starting depression medication, or both. Look at other options. Some people like to exhaust all possible avenues for treatment before they make up their mind.

Does cancer make a difference in how long you live?

Your cancer is advanced, and further treatment won’t make a big difference in how long you live.

What does it feel like to be tired after chemotherapy?

Fatigue is feeling unusually tired, weak, and like you have no energy. Fatigue from chemotherapy treatment can range from feeling a little tired to feeling extremely tired. Fatigue can start quickly or grow slowly over time.

How long does it take for hair to grow back after chemo?

Some chemotherapy medications cause hair loss. Hair loss usually starts about 2 to 4 weeks after the first chemotherapy treatment. If you do lose your hair, it will begin to grow back once you’re no longer taking that chemotherapy medication.

How long does it take for mucositis to appear after chemo?

Mucositis is redness, swelling, tenderness, or sores in your mouth, or on your tongue or lips. Symptoms may start 3 to 10 days after your first chemotherapy treatment.

What is the best medication for diarrhoea?

Take an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication, such as loperamide (Imodium ® ), unless your healthcare provider tells you not to.

How to manage fatigue from cancer?

For more information about how you can manage fatigue with exercise, read Managing Cancer-Related Fatigue with Exercise. Plan activities on days you know you’ll have more energy. Don’t be afraid to ask your family and friends for help with tasks or activities that make you feel tired. Drink enough liquids.

Can chemo cause numbness in the hands?

Neuropathy (numbness or tingling hands and feet) Some chemotherapy can affect the nerves in your hands or feet. You could develop some numbness or tingling in your fingers, toes, or both. This may be temporary or permanent depending on how long you’re on chemotherapy.

Can chemotherapy cause constipation?

It’s a common side effect of medications used to treat pain and nausea. Some chemotherapy can also cause constipation.