things to do when going through cancer treatment

• Reading a good book. The first of our cancer patient activities is one that’s tried and true. Reading a good book is a healthy and productive way to reduce stress.
• Creating some art. Creating art can be relaxing and meditative. When you draw or doodle in a coloring book, you can express your emotions through art.
• Knitting or other crafts. The next of our activities for cancer patients is a popular one. Many cancer patients enjoy knitting or crocheting during chemotherapy to pass the time.
• Journaling. You don’t have to be a professional writer to enjoy journaling. ...
• Completing a puzzle. Completing puzzles like crosswords, jigsaws or Sudoku are great to keep your mind busy as well. Like knitting, puzzles can also help maintain brain health.
Gardening at home. Gardening is another great activity for cancer patients, as it gets you to take a trip outside and enjoy some sunshine!
Tablets at Comprehensive. At Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, we offer our patients with individual tablets during chemotherapy to help pass the time.

What is the best exercise for cancer patients?

The following types of exercise can help cancer patients - and everyone else - get back in shape:

• Flexibility exercises ( stretching ). Virtually everyone can do flexibility exercises. ...
• Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, and swimming. This kind of exercise burns calories and helps you lose weight. ...
• Resistance training (Iifting weights or isometric exercise), which builds muscle. ...

What are possible ways to help cancer patients?

• Take care of the grocery shopping, or order groceries online and have them delivered.
• Help keep their household running. ...
• Bring a cup of tea or coffee and stop by for a visit. ...
• Give the primary caregiver a break. ...
• Drive the patient to appointments. ...
• Take notes during appointments or when the doctor or nurse stops by in the hospital. ...

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What to say to a cancer patient?

The largest hospital system in Idaho is preparing to offer a new cancer treatment this April for the first time in the Gem State.

How to tell your patients they have cancer?

• Call ahead . Find out the visiting hours of the nursing unit. ...
• Expect to keep your visit short . You should visit for no more than 20 to 30 minutes at a time. ...
• Stay away if you are not feeling well . ...
• If you want to bring gifts, use your judgment. ...

How can I help someone going through cancer treatment?

Here are their suggestions.Take care of the grocery shopping, or order groceries online and have them delivered.Help keep their household running. ... Bring a cup of tea or coffee and stop by for a visit. ... Give the primary caregiver a break. ... Drive the patient to appointments.More items...•

How do you stay strong during cancer treatment?

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.

What is the best thing to do when you have cancer?

Maintain honest, two-way communication with your loved ones, doctors and others after your cancer diagnosis. You may feel particularly isolated if people try to protect you from bad news or if you try to put up a strong front. If you and others express emotions honestly, you can all gain strength from each other.

What do cancer patients need for comfort?

Adult coloring books, journals, a bible or religious or inspirational books. These can all be found online or in a hospital gift shop. A nice scarf, hat or “chemo beanie.” Many chemotherapy patients look for ways to dress their scalps after losing their hair during treatment.

What are good snacks for chemo patients?

Some quick-and-easy snacksCereal (hot or cold)Cheese (aged or hard cheese, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and more)Cookies.Crackers.Dips made with cheese, beans, yogurt, or peanut butter.Fruit (fresh, frozen, canned, dried)Gelatin made with juice, milk, or fruit.Granola or trail mix.More items...•

What helps chemo patients feel better?

Here's what they had to say.Get 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 can I live a good life with cancer?

If you feel well enough, keep up with your daily routine. This includes going to work, spending time with family and friends, taking part in hobbies and even going on trips. At the same time, give yourself time to be with your feelings about cancer. Also, be careful about acting cheerful when you are not.

How do I make the most of my life with cancer?

6 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Cancer CareAccept practical and emotional support. Having a network of supportive people is very beneficial for your health, especially emotional support. ... Manage stress. ... Get enough sleep. ... Exercise regularly. ... Eat well. ... Avoid environmental toxins.

How can I live happy with cancer?

Make yourself a priority. Make time for therapy, take medication if you need it, and stay in touch with your medical team. Make self-care an everyday thing -- get some exercise and take time to relax and do things you enjoy. You'll feel better and ease back into your post-treatment life.

What do cancer patients want most?

Most cancer patients wish to be well informed at all stages of their cancer journeys. Patients want information about their care, and receiving valued information is very strongly related to satisfaction with that care. Information‐seeking behavior continues from diagnosis to follow‐up.

How do I prepare my home for chemo?

Stay healthy and strong.Take it easy.Don't compare your body to how it was before chemotherapy.Drink lots of water.Go for a walk every day, if possible.Try to eat something. ... Read the provided handouts regarding chemotherapy and its side effects.Try acupuncture to help alleviate pain and nausea.More items...•

How do you cheer up someone with cancer?

What you can do: VisitsAlways call before you visit. ... Schedule a visit that allows you to give physical and emotional support for the caregiver, too. ... Make short, regular visits rather than long, infrequent ones. ... Begin and end the visit with a touch, a hug, or a handshake.Be understanding if you are asked .More items...•

How to get help for cancer?

What Can I Do? 1 Talk to your doctor or other health care provider. Your health care team may be able to help, or they can refer you to mental health services. 2 Reach out for support to family members, friends, those who share your faith, a support group, or a psychologist. 3 Stay as active as you can. Physical activity has been linked to lower rates of depression among cancer survivors.

How does chemotherapy treat cancer?

Chemotherapy drugs treat cancer by killing the fastest-growing cells in the body— both cancer cells and good cells. 2. Neutropenia. White blood cells are good cells that help your body fight infections. Chemotherapy kills many of these cells.

How Can I Avoid Getting an Infection During Chemotherapy?

Wash your hands often, and ask your family, visitors, and health care providers to wash theirs, too.

What Else Can I Do to Stay Healthy?

You can lower your risk of getting cancer again by making healthy choices like—

How to protect yourself from cuts?

If you get a small cut, wash it thoroughly, put antibiotic cream on it, and cover it with a bandage. Call your doctor right away if you notice any signs of an infection, especially a fever.

How to reduce depression in cancer survivors?

Stay as active as you can. Physical activity has been linked to lower rates of depression among cancer survivors.

Is it normal to be scared of cancer?

Three-time survivor George Hilliard shares his personal prescription for surviving cancer. Being told you have cancer is scary. It’s normal to feel worried, sad, afraid, or even angry. Some treatments for cancer also can affect your feelings, or make it hard for you to concentrate or remember things.

What are some hobbies that cancer patients can do?

The next of our activities for cancer patients is a popular one. Many cancer patients enjoy knitting or crocheting during chemotherapy to pass the time. Origami is also a fun hobby to learn. These crafts keep the hands busy, and you’ll be creating a fun product that can be a gift. These activities offer brain health benefits as they maintain ...

How to relieve stress from cancer?

Going through cancer treatment can be a difficult journey. However, many patients reduce their stress by welcoming support from loved ones and their cancer care team. One of the many ways you can relieve stress during your cancer journey is with fun activities. Try out some of these activities for cancer patients.

What do the tablets do at Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada?

At Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, we offer our patients with individual tablets during chemotherapy to help pass the time. The tablets offer the latest movies, inspirational stories or more information about the practice.

How to help cancer patients with stress?

Watch your plants grow and thrive, and enjoy the beautiful colors outside your window or as you approach your front door. Check with your cancer care team to make sure gardening is not too extensive of exercise.

Is reading a book good for cancer?

Reading a good book is a healthy and productive way to reduce stress. During your next appointment, bring a fiction book or e-book for fun, a nonfiction book or e-book to learn a skill or an inspirational book or e-book written by cancer survivors to provide you some support.

How to help someone with cancer?

When spending time with someone with cancer it may be helpful to remember that laughter can alleviate stress. Along with treating them as normal as possible, remember to laugh. " The best thing people gave me was laughter.

Can cancer patients travel for hours?

Even if you have to travel more than a few hours, people with cancer will notice that you are going out of your way to spend time with them and it will mean a lot more than you think.

Can coworkers help someone with cancer?

Even if they feel like they don't know the person with cancer, co- workers can help in specific ways for example helping someone set up their home office, working overtime when they are too sick or tired, and giving up your sick days for them to have more time off.

Is cancer hard to keep up with?

Having cancer is hard and it is hard to keep up. With cancer treatments and care plans, everyday things like cooking and cleaning can fall through the cracks. Often times people will not ask for help, but that doesn't mean it is not wanted or needed. We recently asked WhatNexters to share the most meaningful acts of kindness they received ...

When will medical supplies be available for cancer patients?

on April 12, 2020. When going through cancer treatment, there are medical supplies available that make life a little easier. In these top picks, we look at the most-needed things during cancer treatment. You may find them useful in your own care or as a caregiver of patients with cancer . 1.

Can you bathe after surgery?

Sometimes fatigue is so severe, it is just too tiring to bathe. At other times, bathing is restricted for a period after surgery. This type of soap doesn't require rinsing, so you can get clean without water.

Can radiation patients swallow pills?

This is great for one that has difficulty swallowing or for patients who take many pills at the same and who are having difficulty swallowing them together or consecutively. It is also great for radiation patients who have dry mouth, which can make it difficult to swallow pills.

Can you drink with a nose cup?

Nosey Cups allow drinking while laying down. You don't have to be in an upright position. They have an area cut out to make room for the nose so you can tip and drink without spilling. They are great for children, too.

Does chemotherapy cause nausea?

Diarrhea and nausea are both side effects of chemotherapy. 2  Many times there is such an urgency that the patient may not make it to the restroom. Having a bedside commode makes it much easier.

What is the best way to help someone with cancer?

Waiting rooms, chemo infusion rooms, the drive back and forth – these can all be opportunities for them to grab some much-needed sleep, and a sleep mask can help.

What to give to a cancer patient?

Of course, many of the items already listed are ideal for the loved one of the patient fighting cancer, particularly the main caregiver. Travel blankets, travel mugs, convenient snacks, new slippers, and so much more can help keep them healthy and well. In addition to the ideas above, here’s a great package idea for the loved one of a cancer patient:

What are some good books to read to keep your brain active?

7. Puzzle Books: Sudoku, crossword, word search, or a combination of them all, puzzle books can help pass the time and keep the brain active.

What is the best shake for cancer patients?

46. Nutritional Drinks: Shakes like Ensure and Boost are not only great sources of vitamins and minerals, but also provides fiber and protein. They are easier on the stomach and cancer patients can sip on them to get valuable nutrition.

What is cancer retreat?

Cancer Retreats / By Pampered in Paradise. There are so many things going on in the life of a cancer patient and of those around them. It can be physically, psychologically, emotionally, and socially exhausting. When they and their loved ones are going through such a trying time, sometimes the littlest thing can bring the greatest joy.

Can you have a freezer pop after chemo?

49. Freezer Pops: Popsicles are great when someone is a bit queasy after chemo, and oftentimes the harsh therapy can result in painful mouth sores. In this case, you may want to stay away from all-natural juice pops, because any acid or citrus may be more irritating. Good ol’ grape, cherry, and blue raspberry should do the trick.

Does red wine help with cancer?

52. Wine: Not only is it enjoyable and relaxing, there is research that indicates that red wine has cancer-fighting antioxidants.

What motivates cancer patients to get through treatment?

Having something positive to look forward to is a great motivator for cancer patients to get through treatment. You can plan something to anticipate, or keep them reminded of a goal they have.

What does a cancer patient not need?

One thing a cancer patient does not need any more of? Stress. Offering to help out with tasks like rides to treatments, house cleaning, feeding pets or driving kids to school/sports will lift a huge weight off your loved one’s shoulders. The less they focus on day-to-day chores, the more they can focus on getting better.

What is a caring bridge?

CaringBridge is a personal health journal that lets you easily share your health journey with all your loved ones. Creating a site is a great way to help your loved one easily communicate and receive support, which makes it an awesome gift to give someone battling cancer.

How to keep your loved one entertained in a hospital?

Hospitals aren’t the most exciting setting, and boredom can set in quickly. Keep your loved one entertained by bringing over some of your favorite books. You could bring anything from your favorite mystery novel to a prayer book – the main focus should be on sharing something you love (and think they’ll love, too.)

What to do when you are not visiting in person?

And when you’re not visiting in person, pick up the phone and give your loved one a call. Hearing the voices of people they care about can be an incredible source of comfort and entertainment.

What takes someone's mind off of things better than a party?

What takes someone’s mind off of things better than a party? When a loved one has cancer, it can feel difficult to get in the party mood, but it’s important to stay positive and celebrate any victories, big or small. Whether it be a birthday bash or recognizing a cancerversary (a significant milestone in one’s cancer journey), your loved one shouldn’t have to miss out because of their illness.

Why is it important to offer meals?

Offering meals is a gift-giving staple for a reason: it takes a huge burden off a patient. Finding the time to cook regularly is a challenge even for those with no health issues, let alone someone struggling with cancer. A home cooked meal or a gift card to a favorite restaurant can make a big difference.

What to do during chemotherapy?

These include things like eating a nutritious diet, staying active, and using support services like counseling and support groups. Last medically reviewed on May 5, 2021.

How to help your body heal from chemotherapy?

Focus on calories and protein. When you’re on chemotherapy, it’s important to keep up your strength to help your body heal and to cope with any treatment side effects. Because of this, you’ll need to have extra calories and protein in your diet.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

When this happens, it can lead to side effects like lowered immunity, hair loss, and nausea or vomiting. There are certain precautions that you can take to limit your side effects and help make treatment safer. We’ll explore nine things to avoid during chemotherapy treatment.

How to avoid contact with body fluids?

Here are a few tips for a avoiding contact: Wash your hands. Thoroughly wash and dry your hands after using the bathroom or after coming into contact with any body fluids that may contain chemotherapy drugs. Flush twice.

What are some precautions to take during chemotherapy?

Some examples of these steps are preventing contact with bodily fluids after treatment, avoiding infections, and not smoking.

How to stop chemotherapy?

Avoid gyms. Since chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, it’s a good idea to avoid crowded gyms during your treatment. Know when to stop. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain during your workout, stop the workout and speak with your doctor about other ways to stay active.

How does chemotherapy work?

It works by using strong drugs to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells, which grow and divide more quickly than many healthy cell types. However, it’s still possible for chemotherapy to target healthy cells that also divide quickly. Some examples include cells in the digestive tract, immune system, ...

What to say to someone with cancer?

If you’re struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer: “I’m here for you.”. “You are in my thoughts and prayers.”. “This stinks.”. “Let me help you with…”. Tell a joke. “You are not alone.”. “Any time you need to talk, I’ll listen.”. “What day works for a visit?”.

How can listening help someone with cancer?

Having someone there to just listen can be enormously helpful for someone with cancer. They’re experiencing a lot of emotions, and you can provide an outlet for whatever they want to talk about.

What is a caring bridge?

When you’re going through a health journey, you have a lot on your plate. CaringBridge replaces the time-consuming task of sharing your health news over and over. It’s a free, easy to use online journal for sharing health information with your family and friends.

How to show support to a friend?

During this difficult time, it’s crucial to show your support by planning regular visits. This will give your friend or family member a sense of community and help them feel like things are more normal. For example, the CaringBridge Planner helps you coordinate care and organize needs like bringing meals, rides to doctor appointments or taking care of pets.

How to show up for a visit?

Visit your loved one whether they’re at home or in the hospital. Showing up can also be as simple as sending a text or a call. Sometimes it is the small gestures that matter the most.

How to help someone who is unknown?

While they enter a new hurdle of their life, you can help by creating some familiarity for them during a period of unknown.

How to make someone feel positive?

A little motivation goes a long way. Pump your loved one up. Make them feel powerful. Whatever words you choose to convey this, they may appreciate the positivity despite a negative situation.

What is cancer in the medical field?

Cancer is an illness that not only creates complications for one person, but changes the lives of many over the course of the diagnosis, disease, and treatment. If someone you know is going through this, know that your support is valued.

Do cancer patients feel strong?

Cancer patients may not feel strong, and may, in fact, feel the exact opposite. Even if that’s true, it’s important to let them know how strong they truly are. You can also send a gift of a cozy blanket or slippers to provide some comfort as they continue their fight.

Is cancer hard to handle?

Cancer is one of the most challenging illnesses for anyone and their loved ones to handle. If you are supporting someone recently diagnosed, it can be hard to know what to say.