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Chemotherapy
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Chemotherapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. What you do during chemotherapy is important to your health. These four steps can help you during chemotherapy:
- Inform your physician of side effects you experience from treatment. Tell your physician if you experience nose bleeds, fatigue, constipation, sores in your mouth, coughing, weight changes, marks on your skin, fever, loss of hair, or other side effects.
- Before taking other medications, ask your physician. Chemotherapy uses drugs to fight your cancer. Taking other medications during treatment may cause problems. To get the best results, inform your physician about other medications you take regularly. Do not take aspirin without your physician's approval.
- Take care of your health. Eat properly. Try to maintain your weight. Drink plenty of fluids. Try to eat foods from the four basic food groups every day. Oral care is also important. Brush your teeth after every meal. Use a soft toothbrush. If you cannot brush, rinse with water. Avoid people who have colds or the flu. Be sure to have all blood tests completed that your physician orders.
- Talk about your feelings. Cancer treatment can sometimes change the way you feel about things. You may experience emotions like anger or sadness. This is normal, but talking about your feelings will help. Some people talk to friends or family, some talk to others with cancer, and some discuss their feelings with a professional counselor. Whatever you choose, know that talking about your situation can help relieve feelings of anxiety.
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