General Side Effects

21.03.2024

GENERAL SIDE EFFECTS OF CANCER TREATMENT

Although the treatment methods used in cancer treatment play a critical role in the fight against cancer, these treatments have some challenging side effects on the body. The most common side effects include fatigue, hair loss, nausea and vomiting. These treatments can also cause significant drops in blood cells, making the patient more vulnerable to infections and increasing the risk of anemia. Side effects such as loss of appetite, sores in the mouth and skin changes are frequently seen in patients receiving cancer treatment. While effects on the nervous system can cause problems such as numbness and muscle weakness, the spiritual aspects of the treatment process cannot be ignored; Many patients may experience emotional difficulties such as depression and anxiety. Each of these side effects should be carefully monitored by the patient and healthcare team and provided with the best possible care and support. During this challenging process, every effort to alleviate side effects and improve patient quality of life is vital to the success of the treatment.

Image 1: Side effects of drugs used in cancer treatment are divided into degrees according to their severity. In case of serious side effects, the patient may be hospitalized and treated.

Constitutional side effects of cancer treatments are side effects that affect the general condition of the body. These side effects can significantly affect the quality of life of patients receiving treatment. Constitutional side effects may include:

Tiredness: It is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy. Patients often feel very tired, and this fatigue may persist for much of the treatment period.

Fever and Sweating: Some patients may experience fever and/or excessive sweating during treatment.

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Cancer treatment can lead to loss of appetite and, ultimately, weight loss.

General Weakness and Weakness: Cancer treatment can reduce patients' overall endurance and strength levels.

Spiritual Effects: Emotional side effects such as depression and anxiety may be among the constitutional effects of treatment. These conditions can affect the patient's overall health and quality of life.

Sleeping disorders: Changes in sleep patterns such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness may occur.

These side effects may vary depending on the patients' lifestyle, general health status, and type of chemotherapy regimen. Supportive treatments and lifestyle changes are important to help patients cope with these side effects. It is important to always consult the physicians and nurses who follow the patient for necessary precautions to manage and reduce these side effects.

Image 2: Preventive medications can be given before treatment to prevent side effects of drugs used in cancer treatment.

TREATMENT

Management of constitutional side effects of cancer treatment is vital to preserve the patient's overall quality of life and facilitate the treatment process. Various strategies can be applied to treat and alleviate these side effects:

Fatigue Management:

Regular, light exercise (such as walking) can help reduce fatigue.

It is important to ensure adequate rest and sleep patterns.

Plan short rests and naps during the day.

Plan daily activities in a balanced way to preserve energy.

Precautions for Fever and Sweating:

Consult a doctor in case of fever, as it may be a sign of infection.

Wear light clothing and adjust the room temperature to help regulate body temperature.

Appetite and Weight Management:

It may be easier to eat small, frequent meals.

Choose nutritious and calorie-rich foods.

Appetite stimulants or nutritional supplements can be used in consultation with a physician.

Precautions for Weakness and Weakness:

A balanced diet and adequate fluid intake can increase energy levels.

It is important to limit physical activities and save energy.

Mental Health Support:

Getting psychological support or counseling from psychiatrists or psychologists can be helpful in coping with emotional difficulties.

Cancer support groups and programs that teach living with cancer can provide emotional support.

Management of Sleep Disorders:

Establishing sleep routines and improving sleep hygiene (for example, using the bedroom only for sleeping) may be helpful.

If sleep problems persist, sleeping pills or natural sleep aids may be recommended.

Each of these measures must be tailored to the individual needs of the patient. You should always cooperate with your oncologist to manage these side effects and develop solutions appropriate to your personal health situation. If the severity or duration of side effects increases unexpectedly, you should contact your oncologist immediately.