Managing short-term side effects of breast cancer treatments
As we’ve seen, breast cancer treatments can lead to a wide variety of short-term side effects. Because of this, it’s normal not to know where to start when it comes to managing them.
Here are some basic management strategies you can use to help cope with the short-term side effects of breast cancer treatments.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a very common side effect. However, there are steps you can take to curb it:
- Aim to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.
- Stay active and get regular physical activity, which can help reduce fatigue and increase energy.
- Prioritize which activities to do and which to skip.
- Take the time to rest when you need it.
- Focus on staying hydrated and consuming nutritious foods and drinks.
- Try out ways to ease stress, such as meditation or yoga.
- Ask for help with daily tasks when you need it.
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Digestive side effects
The digestive side effects of breast cancer treatment can make it difficult or painful to eat. To help out with this, try some of the following:
- Listen to your body and avoid foods that make you feel worse.
- Eat several small meals throughout the day instead of a few large ones.
- If solid foods are unappetizing or hard to keep down, focus on liquids, such as smoothies or soups, that provide calories and protein.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Select high-fiber foods to help with constipation and low-fiber foods to help with diarrhea.
- Ask your doctor about anti-nausea medication.
- For mouth sores, try foods that are soft and at room temperature or cooler. Also avoid spicy, acidic, or sugary foods that can cause mouth irritation.
Pain
Pain related to breast cancer treatment can come in a variety of forms. These can include body aches and pains, headaches, and nerve pain. Pain can be constant or intermittent.
Treatment depends on the type of pain you’re experiencing.
If you’re experiencing pain, ask your doctor about medications that can help ease it. It may also help to try out techniques that help you relax and center yourself, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing.
Hair loss
Losing your hair during your cancer treatment can be distressing. However, not every breast cancer treatment is associated with this side effect.
Ask your doctor whether hair loss happens with your specific treatment. If so, you may choose to wear a wig as you begin to lose hair. Try picking out a wig before your treatment so it can be matched as best as possible to your natural hair.
After you’ve lost your hair, take steps to protect your scalp. Try to stay out of direct sunlight and avoid places that are either very hot or very cold.
Skin rashes or reactions
Some breast cancer treatments can cause uncomfortable rashes or skin reactions. Follow these tips to help ease these side effects:
- Aim to keep your skin clean and dry.
- Focus on short showers in water that’s cool or room temperature.
- Gently pat yourself dry instead of wiping or rubbing with a towel.
- Moisturize after showering.
- Use skin care products that don’t irritate your skin.
- Wear clothes made from soft, breathable fabrics.
- Stay out of direct sunlight and use high-SPF sunscreen if your treatment causes sun sensitivity.
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Low blood cell counts
Low blood cell counts can lead to anemia, increased infections, and easy bleeding.
For anemia, try to:
- get plenty of sleep at night
- reduce your daily activities or ask others to help you out as needed
- eat a balanced diet
To prevent contracting an infection:
- Get up to date on any vaccinations before starting treatment.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Regularly clean high-touch surfaces in your home.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Clean any cuts or scrapes right after they happen.
- Cook foods to their safe cooking temperature.
- Thoroughly wash fresh produce before eating it.
To address easy bleeding or bruising:
- Take extra care going about your daily activities, especially when they come with a risk of nicks, scrapes, and cuts.
- Remove trip hazards around your home and add padding to sharp furniture edges.
- Avoid contact sports or strenuous exercise that could lead to injury.
Sexual side effects
Sexual side effects from breast cancer treatments can include but aren’t limited to:
- vaginal dryness
- hot flashes
- changes in menstrual periods
Talk with your doctor about whether it’s OK to have sex during your treatment. If so, be sure to take steps to prevent becoming pregnant, as some cancer treatments can be very harmful to a developing fetus.
Some medications can help with vaginal dryness, so ask your doctor about them. It may also be helpful to use a lubricant during sex.
Dressing in layers that you can easily remove can help greatly when a hot flash comes on. It may also be beneficial to keep a handheld fan on you as well.
Managing long-term side effects of breast cancer treatments
According to the National Cancer Institute, making healthy lifestyle choices can help manage some types of long-term side effects. This can include doing things like:
- Eating a balanced diet: Focus on a diet that’s high in fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, and lean protein sources. Ask your doctor for dietary pointers that are tailored to your specific situation.
- Exercising: It’s still important to get regular exercise that includes both cardio and weight-bearing exercise. Talk with your doctor about the types of activities that would be appropriate for you.
- Getting enough sleep: Set up a sleeping and waking schedule you can stick to. Also, create an environment that promotes good sleep by making sure it’s dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.
- Reducing stress levels: Take steps to lower your stress levels. Some examples of things to try include doing yoga, curling up with a book, and doing a hobby you enjoy.
- Limiting alcohol: Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all.
- Avoiding smoking: Aim to avoid using cigarettes and other tobacco-based products.
Additionally, many of the long-term effects of breast cancer treatment can be managed by working with your doctor. This can include things like:
- taking medications to help with your symptoms
- participating in therapy or counseling
- doing physical therapy or occupational therapy
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As such, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor if you have concerning symptoms in the weeks, months, or years after your breast cancer treatment concludes.