Anticipating what will happen during and after chemotherapy can be overwhelming and even downright frightening. Getting prepared by learning what to expect may help to ease your mind…and in the end, knowing how to care for yourself during this challenging time will ensure you get the most out of your therapy.
3 Key Tips to Help You Prepare for Chemo…Learning, Flexible Planning, and Taking Care
Learning
You are already doing something vital to your future health by reading this information. In order to get the most out of this therapy, it’s important to understand the basics of chemotherapy before you begin treatment.
If you are finding all the information out there overwhelming, consider asking someone to play “information gatherer” for you…someone to read all the necessary information, and let you know what you need to know.
Flexible Planning
Since chemotherapy is generally given over three to six months, every three weeks, with a recovery period between treatments, it’s possible to make a few plans with this schedule in mind.
…adjust your thinking
However, it’s important to be flexible, since chemotherapy schedules may change for a variety of reasons. Adjust your thinking and expectations to allow room for treatment delays, changes in start/stop dates, etc.
…see your dentist
In the meantime, get yourself organized for the journey ahead by scheduling a pre-treatment dental checkup. The mouth is a vulnerable area during some types of chemotherapy and is prone to infection. Giving your teeth a clean bill of health will help to safeguard your mouth from potential problems during chemotherapy.
…make sure you’re covered at home and at work
While many people are able to continue to work, there’s no way of knowing how you will feel, so it’s important to plan ahead for time off work if you should need it. You may also require help at home for the first few days following treatment…make any arrangements to have your children, pets, and/or home taken care of in advance.
…gather your supplies
Since there’s no way to predict how you will feel, it’s important to stock up on whatever you may need after treatment before treatment begins…
- Be well stocked with your favorite beverages and foods…and make sure there’s ice in the freezer
- Have prescriptions for whatever medications you normally take filled.
- Stock up on books, magazines, music…and anything else that may help you to be comfortable.
- Make sure you have a thermometer and are able to read it.
Taking Care
It’s important to take care of yourself by focusing on your own needs during this time. If you’re unfamiliar with taking care of yourself, here’s a guide:
- Ask friends and family for help when you need it.
- Try to relax, and learn to reduce your stress levels…some people find biofeedback, breathing exercises, and guided imagery helpful; others rely on hobbies or passions such as artwork, crafts, journaling, or music.
- Improve your overall health with plenty of rest, and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, and calories to keep up your stamina.
- Get as much exercise and fresh air as you and your physician feel you can safely manage…this will help reduce fatigue and stress levels.
- Avoid alcohol, other than a small amount of wine or beer to help you relax.
- Avoid being around people who have cold and flu infections or other contagions as your immune system may be compromised.
- And above all, keep your eye on the prize…focusing on your treatment goals is one small step in dealing with the difficulties of chemotherapy.
