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How To Prepare For Chemotherapy

Nov 03, 2022

What to know about chemotherapy preparation 

Chemotherapy kills cancer cells, but also healthy cells, resulting in side effects such as hair loss and a weakened immune system. Appropriate preparation for chemotherapy can help a patient manage this treatment and face its complications. 


In the majority of instances, no medical preparations are required for chemotherapy. Understanding the side effects and having a support plan can make this treatment more manageable. 


This article describes how to prepare for chemotherapy and offers advice on how to get ready for chemotherapy. Each chemotherapy treatment operates somewhat differently. 


Therefore, it is essential to inquire about the exact regimen that a physician recommends. Examples of appropriate inquiries include: 

  • What are the treatment's objectives? 
  • Can chemotherapy maybe heal my cancer? If not, what is the likelihood that it will prolong my life? 
  • Where will I receive medical care? 
  • What time am I required to arrive? 
  • What are the names of the medications I'll be taking? 
  • Should I avoid certain medications, foods, or activities during chemotherapy? 
  • Is there an emergency number for chemotherapy complications after hours? 
  • When should I contact my doctor regarding adverse effects? 
  • How long will the adverse effects most likely last?  


Ask about Fertility

According to a reliable source, chemotherapy can impair fertility and harm a developing fetus. It may also have long-term impacts on a person's capacity to conceive or impregnate a partner in some situations. People who are wanting to conceive should examine their choices with a fertility doctor, which may include freezing eggs or sperm. 


It is essential to quit attempting to conceive prior to chemotherapy, therefore a person may desire to discuss birth control choices with a physician. 


Tend to oral health 

Many chemotherapy patients encounter oral health side effects, such as mouth sores. As chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, it might exacerbate existing oral health problems. Extreme oral health difficulties may potentially necessitate delaying chemotherapy. 


Before beginning chemotherapy, it is essential to see a dentistReliable Source to repair cavities, abscesses, gum disease, and other concerns. 


Prevent side effects 

Before beginning treatment, it is prudent to address side effects with the oncologist, since some measures can be taken to lessen the likelihood of side effects. Certain treatments, such as anti-diarrhea and anti-nausea therapies, can alleviate significant adverse effects. 


It may be beneficial to request a prescription in advance so that there is no need to visit the pharmacy in the event of vomiting, diarrhea, or nausea. 


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Avoid having a packed agenda 

Responses to chemotherapy vary greatly between individuals. Some patients recover fast, while others require many days. Due to the variety of responses, it is best to err on the side of caution and clear the schedule for a few days before to the first session. 


For instance, if possible, a person could consider child care and time off from work. Additionally, they may desire to avoid scheduling appointments and organizing large activities for a few days following treatment. 


Ask for help 

It is essential to have a team of individuals who can assist with daily tasks, whether they are family members or professional support staff like a housekeeper or child care provider. This list, compiled prior to treatment, allows people to provide assistance immediately thereafter. 


Try your best to support healthy nutrition 

Trusted Source Food essential for helping the body repair, but making meals while recovering from chemotherapy can be tough. People can resolve this problem by: 


  • prepared freezable meals ahead of treatment and then simply defrosting and reheating them afterward\sasking a friend to provide a couple meals 
  • Utilizing a meal delivery service 
  • Create a chemotherapeutic record 


It is helpful to register chemotherapy treatments so that all medical records are in one location. Listing treatments alongside any adverse effects may help people predict side effects and identify any lifestyle adjustments — such as drinking more water or eating particular meals — that lessen them. 


Pack a bag for sessions of therapy

Chemotherapy can be time-consuming, and there is little to do during treatment. Individuals can load a backpack with objects that make them feel at ease and provide them with something to do. Examples of items to bring to treatment: 


  • Layers of clothing and a blanket; a plush pillow; headphones to listen to music or podcasts; and a pair of headphones 
  • earplugs, in case ambient noise is irritating 
  • if one wants to sleep, an eye mask; if not, an activity-providing item, such as a notebook or planner, a fantastic book, or crossword puzzles; a phone and a portable charger; 
  • chewing gum 
  • beverages and snacks 


Why planning for chemo is essential 

In most circumstances, a person does not need to take specific actions to make chemotherapy safe. However, this does not negate the significance of preparedness. Preparation can help a person feel less worried before and during treatment, and it may help ease side effects. 


It is especially crucial to plan for the days following treatment. Dealing with anxious children, a cluttered home, and an empty refrigerator can exacerbate the difficulties of chemotherapy. Obtaining assistance to mitigate these obstacles helps protect the body and psyche. 


Following chemotherapy 

The following tips may aid a person receiving chemotherapy: 


  • Drink plenty of fluids 
  • Drinking lots of fluids after chemotherapy can avoid dehydration and help the body digest chemotherapy medications. People who cannot keep anything down due to excessive vomiting should call their healthcare provider. 
  • Dispose of chemotherapy trash 
  • Urine, feces, vomit, and other bodily fluids may be contaminated with chemotherapy medications, providing an environmental risk and endangering other members of the family. A person may see a physician on how to dispose of this garbage. 
  • Maintain a safe distance from sick individuals. 


As chemotherapy impairs the immune system, it raises the risk of infectionReliable Source. After chemotherapy, a person should limit contact with sick individuals and consider avoiding large gatherings or wearing a mask in public. Additionally, frequent hand washing can lessen the likelihood of becoming ill. 


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Get assistance with side effects 

It is advisable to record all adverse effects, including their intensity, duration, and whether anything helps to alleviate them. The individual can then discuss this information with a physician. If side effects interfere with daily life, a physician can provide drugs and other methods to alleviate them. 

Other helpful advice 


These tips may also be beneficial for someone receiving chemotherapy: 

  • Discuss insurance concerns
  • Chemotherapy can come with a hefty price tag, and some individuals may worry that they cannot afford treatment. Before starting therapy, an individual might contact their insurer to inquire about coverage. If a patient's plan does not cover a certain medication, their physician may be able to draft a letter stating why it is medically required and obtain an exemption. 
  • Individuals have the ability to appeal judgments made by insurance companies. They must follow the insurer's proper appeals procedure and appeal any denials as soon as possible. 


Get assistance 

There is no correct or incorrect reaction to chemotherapy. A person is not need to be optimistic, courageous, or inspiring. Respecting each individual's unique perspective on treatment is crucial, as is locating a network of supportive individuals who can provide assistance. These people can include: 

  • relatives who have battled cancer 
  • a cancer support group, family and friends who can listen without judging, and a therapist who specializes in treating cancer patients are all essential. 
  • Continue to seek treatment and ask questions 


Chemotherapy is not the only choice for cancer treatment. Additionally, it is essential to continue seeing an oncologist. A person should discuss all side effects with their doctor and inquire about how to minimize them. They can also inquire as to what effects chemotherapy should have and what alterations lab tests should reveal. 


A person may inquire about alternate treatments, such as surgery, a new chemotherapy agent, alternative drugs, and palliative care, if the initial treatment is ineffective or creates intolerable side effects. 


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Believe in yourself 

It is essential to receive correct information from reliable sources, but this does not mean that cancer treatment decisions can be delegated to anybody else. Although physicians give treatment recommendations, patients have the final say over their care. If cancer is terminal and chemotherapy is ineffective, it is fair to discontinue treatment. 


Even when cancer is not terminal, it is fair to request a new treatment, a break in treatment, or a different physician. 


Chemotherapy can be difficult on the body and mind, but it may provide a road to a longer life and, in some circumstances, remission. 


Prior to beginning chemotherapy, a patient should discuss their expectations with a physician and continue to seek guidance from their healthcare team throughout the procedure. 


Knowing what to anticipate prior to, during, and after chemotherapy treatment can be of great assistance in handling the treatment. 


What side effects does chemotherapy have? 

Chemotherapy can extend a person's life and aid in the eradication of cancer. Infections, easy bruising or bleeding, and hair loss are among the most common adverse effects of chemotherapy. 

Other typical adverse effects of chemotherapy include: 


  • nausea and vomiting
  • fatigue
  • neuropathy or discomfort caused by nerve damage 
  • constipation or diarrhea 


Chemotherapy kills both healthy and cancerous cells, which results in side effects. Many people suffer these undesirable effects, however some people have few or none. Below, we review 10 of the more prevalent adverse effects of chemotherapy:


1. Infection and a compromised immune system 

Cancer and its treatment can be debilitating. Because chemotherapy destroys healthy immune cells, it can increase a person's susceptibility to infection. In addition, since the immune system is weakened, illnesses may stay longer than usual. 


Eating an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, frequently washing one's hands, avoiding people with infectious diseases, and promptly seeking medical attention for signs of infection can lower the chance of a serious illness. 


2. Bruising and bleeding are more prone 

Chemotherapy can make a person more susceptible to bruising and bleeding. This is a common adverse effect of chemotherapy experienced by many patients. Bleeding more heavily than usual can be harmful. It is a good idea to take measures, such as wearing gloves when gardening or chopping food. Also, take additional precautions to prevent injuries like falls. 


Contact a doctor about any significant wounds or any injuries or bruises that seem to be healing slowly. The American Cancer Society (ACS)Reliable Source suggests contacting the cancer team immediately in the event of any bleeding, unexplained bruises, or blood in the stool or urine during cancer therapy. 


3. Hair loss 

Chemotherapy can damage hair follicles, resulting in weakened, brittle, and falling out hair. Any hair that regrows may be of a different texture or color. This often continues until the end of treatment, following which hair regrows almost invariably. 


The authors of one study estimate that 65 percent of chemotherapy patients have hair loss. There is no method to avoid hair loss with absolute certainty, but proper hair care may slow hair loss and boost regeneration. Nausea and vomiting might occur unexpectedly. These symptoms may arise immediately after chemotherapy or days afterwards. 


Changes to the diet, such as eating smaller portions or avoiding particular foods, can be beneficial. Antinausea drugs can also assist, especially if a person gets the side effects at predictable intervals, such as soon after chemotherapy. 


5. Neuropathy 

Neuropathy is nerve discomfort caused by damaged nerves. It causes tingling, numbness, and strange burning sensations in the hands and feet. Some individuals also endure weakness and discomfort. 


According to a 2014 analysis, neuropathy is frequently exacerbated in patients using specific chemotherapy medications. According to ACSReliable Sources, lotions containing lidocaine or capsaicin may be helpful, but more research is required. 


6. Constipation and loose stools 

As a result of its ability to harm the cells that aid digestion, chemotherapy may induce stomach issues. 


Other chemotherapy side effects, such as nausea, may necessitate dietary modifications; however, rapid dietary changes may cause or exacerbate constipation or diarrhea. Avoiding stomach-irritating meals may be beneficial. And over-the-counter medications for constipation, such as stool softeners or fiber supplements, might alleviate the discomfort associated with bowel motions. Additionally, adequate drinking helps lessen the severity of constipation and avoid dehydration from diarrhea. 


7. Rash 

Chemotherapy can induce rashes and other skin abnormalities by altering the immune system. The medications can also directly cause skin changes. 


Extreme rashes can cause excruciating itching. There is a risk of infection if an individual scrapes till the skin bleeds. Moisturizing lotions and over-the-counter anti-itch treatments may help. 


8. Mouth sores 

Some individuals get painful oral ulcers 1–2 weeks after receiving certain types of chemotherapy. The level of the pain might vary, and the wounds may bleed or become infected. 


A person can try a toothpaste without abrasives or a numbing gel. Some individuals also get comfort by gargling with warm seawater. Consult a physician for treatment if any sores are really painful or oozing. 


9. Breathing difficulties 

On occasion, chemotherapy can cause lung damage and make it more difficult to take in enough oxygen. Some kinds of cancer might also result in breathing difficulties. 


Remaining quiet, sitting with the upper body supported by pillows, and practicing pursed-lip breathing may be beneficial. A doctor may recommend medicine if breathing issues remain. Call 911Trusted Source, or otherwise contact local emergency services, if someone has: 

  • breathing issues that start suddenly and do not improve
  • bluish tint to their mouth, nail beds, or skin
  • chest pain
  • weakness
  • dizziness
  • difficulty speaking 


10. Pain 

Some chemotherapy side effects can induce pain. For example, there may be: 


  • Oral and pharyngeal pain, perhaps caused by oral ulcers 
  • nerve pain 
  • pain at the injection site
  • headaches 


Pain might also arise as cancer progresses. The ACSTrusted Source recommends people to contact their cancer care team if they suffer headaches or pain at an injection or catheter site. If you experience pain, do not discontinue treatment without first consulting your doctor. They might be able to assist. 


Rare side effects 

Some individuals encounter uncommon adverse effects from chemotherapy. Examples of situations that may indicate an emergency include: 

  • Hypersensitivity is a reaction of the immune system to the chemotherapeutic medication. 
  • Extravasation is the leaking of fluid from a blood artery onto the surrounding tissue. 
  • Neutropenic typhlitis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that can affect individuals with a compromised immune system. 
  • This is inflammation of the pancreas, or pancreatitis. 
  • This condition involves the breakdown of red blood cells. 


The American College of Surgeons (ACS) recommends seeking immediate medical attention if any of the following occur following chemotherapy: 


  • a high fever, typically greater than 101°F strong chills 
  • unexpected bleeding or bruising
  • an allergic reaction, which may produce swelling, a rash, or severe itching/pain at the injection or catheter site
  • intense headaches or other odd pain 
  • prolonged diarrhea, vomiting, or both
  • blood in the stool or urine
  • difficulty breathing, in which case, someone should contact 911 


Takeaway 

Chemotherapy has the potential to be a successful cancer treatment, but it can also have negative side effects. 


Before starting the treatment, chat with the doctor about which side effects are most likely, how long they might continue, and how severe they might be. 


The cancer care team may be able to assist manage side effects if they occur. Numerous adverse effects of chemotherapy might be alleviated by means of treatments and coping methods.


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Portugal Surrogacy Regulation - Three Parents and Repentance

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Uncovering the Truth About Children Born via Surrogacy and More

19 Apr, 2023
Children born via assisted reproduction are just as psychologically well-adjusted as those born without assistance, according to a new study that followed 65 children born through egg donation, sperm donation, and surrogacy from infancy until age 20. The study found that children born through assisted reproduction had good relationships with their parents, particularly if their parents told them about their birth history before the age of 7. The lead author of the study, Susan Golombok, a professor emerita of family research and former director of the Centre for Family Research at the University of Cambridge, noted that when the study began over 20 years ago, there was concern about the potential damaging effect on the relationship between the child and the parents due to the absence of a biological link. However, the study found that having children in different or new ways did not interfere with how families functioned. It is best for parents to share the story of assisted reproduction with their children at an early age, so that it becomes a natural part of their family narrative. Clinical psychologist Rebecca Berry, an adjunct faculty member in the department of child and adolescent psychiatry at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine, notes that children begin to ask questions about pregnancy between the ages of 3 and 4, and they will start to ask questions about where babies come from as a way of understanding why they are here. Read: Ana Obregon's Late Son's Baby Born via Surrogacy  It is also important for parents to revisit the birth history from time to time, so that the conversation is ongoing, giving the child a chance to ask questions in an age-appropriate way as they grow older. Golombok notes that many of the parents in the study used children’s books specifically designed for this purpose, allowing them to bring their child’s own story into the narrative. The study found that there were no differences in maternal anxiety and depression between families formed by surrogacy, egg or sperm donation, and families with children born without assisted conception. However, mothers who had babies via donor eggs reported less positive family relationships than mothers who used sperm donation, likely due to insecurities about a lack of genetic connection to their children. Young adults conceived by sperm donation reported poorer family communication than those conceived by egg donation, possibly due to a greater reluctance on the part of fathers to disclose they are not a genetic parent. In conclusion, the study provides reassurance to parents who may have been concerned about the potential negative impact of assisted reproduction on their children. As long as parents share the story of assisted reproduction early and keep the conversation ongoing, children born through egg donation, sperm donation, and surrogacy are just as psychologically well-adjusted as those born without assistance. You may also like: Surrogacy Success Stories - Download Our Free eBook Now

A Labor of Love - Surrogacy Stories From Around the World eBook

14 Apr, 2023
Dive into the awe-inspiring world of surrogacy with this captivating, comprehensive, and heartwarming guide that brings together the voices of surrogates, intended parents, and experts from around the globe. "A Labor of Love: Surrogate Stories from Around the World" offers readers an unparalleled insight into the emotional, medical, and ethical aspects of this life-changing process, making it an essential read for anyone considering or involved in surrogacy. In this illuminating and deeply touching book, you'll explore: Personal stories of surrogates from different cultures and countries, sharing their unique perspectives, challenges, and triumphs The science behind assisted reproductive technologies, demystifying the complex procedures that make surrogacy possible The ethical debates and legal frameworks surrounding surrogacy across various cultures and countries The role of agencies, clinics, and support networks in guiding individuals and families through the surrogacy journey Post-surrogacy experiences, shedding light on the lasting bonds and new beginnings that surrogacy can create Written with warmth, empathy, and a profound understanding of the human spirit, "A Labor of Love" is the ultimate resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper appreciation of this incredible path to parenthood. Whether you're an intended parent, surrogate, or simply curious about the world of surrogacy, this book offers a compelling, informative, and uplifting exploration of love, sacrifice, and the strength of human connection. Get your copy of "A Labor of Love: Surrogate Stories from Around the World" today and immerse yourself in the remarkable stories that celebrate the beauty and resilience of those who choose to embark on this life-affirming adventure. Download your free copy below or download it on Amazon Kindle.
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