Chemotherapy and radiation therapy play a crucial role in destroying cancer cells. Despite being effective cancer treatment methods, these end up affecting healthy cells in the body. This may lead to various undesirable side effects such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and skin irritation, among many others. Managing the side effects caused by these treatments is vital for maintaining overall well-being and quality of life during treatment. This blog explores the common side effects of these treatments and provides practical tips to help manage them.

Common Side effects of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy affects the body as a whole, resulting in systemic side effects. Some of these are mentioned below:
• Fatigue: This is the most common side effect of chemotherapy. Recovery from treatments and your body’s constant fight against cancer can leave you drained. It can also cause anemia or low blood count, leaving you feeling tired.
• Nausea and vomiting: Nearly 80% of people who undergo chemotherapy suffer from chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). This gives a feeling of being sick.
• Hair loss: This is, by far, is the most apparently visible side effects of chemotherapy which starts taking place within three weeks of starting chemo. Sometimes, the lost hair does grow back after the treatment ends but it may be of a different colour and texture.
• Loss of appetite: Chemotherapy may bring about a change in the taste buds, making bitter food taste even bitter. In general, all food items may taste metallic.
• Mouth sores: Mouth sores may develop as a result of chemo, making it difficult to eat food.
• Increased risk of infections: Chemotherapy often decreases the WBC count, leaving you prone to infections. A weakened immune system raises your risk of infections and falling sick.
• Changes in skin: Chemotherapy can cause skin irritation. Rashes and sunburn may be common as your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight.

Common Side effects of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy also affects the body but its side effects are mostly localized. Given below are common side effects:
• Skin irritation: In some individuals, radiation therapy may make your skin sore, causing it to be dry and itchy. These changes are noticeable one or two weeks into the treatment.
• Fatigue: People who undergo radiotherapy often complain of fatigue or feeling of tiredness. Even everyday chores make them tired easily.
• Hair loss (localized): Unlike chemotherapy, radiation therapy causes localized hair loss, in the area exposed to radiations. Very rarely, the hair loss is permanent.
• Difficulty swallowing (If treatment is near throat): A couple of weeks into radiation treatment, you might notice mouth ulcers and sores which make it difficult to swallow or ingest food. This usually happens if radiotherapy is given to the head, chest, neck, or esophagus area.
• Digestive issues (depends on treatment area): You may experience changes in your bowel habits after undergoing radiation therapy to your stomach or pelvic area. Diarrhoea is the most common symptom of radiotherapy.

Practical Ways to Manage Side Effects

Given below are some practical tips to manage side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
1. Fatigue: To combat fatigue, you should plan your daily activities while prioritizing rest and taking short naps. Strictly maintaining sleep routine is advisable.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Eating meals right before or after chemotherapy session can increase the feeling of nausea and vomiting. So, plan your meals mindfully. Avoid oily, greasy, and strong-smelling food which can precipitate the felling of nausea. Staying well hydrated is important.
3. Hair loss: Coping with hair loss can be difficult, especially if you start losing hair on your head. You can either use a synthetic wig or use headwear such as scarves to cover the patches.
4. Skin problems: When your skin feels extra sensitive, use a mild soap and moisturizer. Avoid harsh sunlight and use a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher before you step outside. Wearing a large-brimmed hat also helps.
5. Mouth sores: Eat soft food and maintain good oral hygiene by using a mouthwash, if required. Avoid eating extra spicy or salty foods when you suffer from mouth sores.
6. Weakened immunity: When your immune system is compromised, stay protected by getting yourself vaccinated. Maintain good hygiene by frequently washing hands to prevent infections.
7. Loss of appetite: Eat healthy and small, frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.

While chemotherapy and radiation therapy are effective treatments against cancer, the ensuing side effects can be challenging for many patients. With the right combination of medical guidance, proper care, rest, and emotional support, many of these side effects can be effectively reduced and controlled. It is important for patients to communicate freely with their healthcare team if the side effects still persist. Under the caregivers’ guidance, the patient can safely navigate treatment and completely recover from the side effects with the passage of time.