Mesothelioma Treatment Side Effects

Some of the treatments used to combat mesothelioma may leave you feeling weak, dizzy or nauseated. While these side effects may be unavoidable, there are steps available that can help reduce the severity and unpleasantness of them. Here are some suggestions to help you deal with side effects.

Dealing with Fatigue and Exhaustion

• Plan ahead to minimize chores and physical activities in the few days after a mesothelioma treatment. Side effects vary from person to person, but it is common to feel weak and nauseous after treatment. Plan to allow plenty of rest, and try to have someone around to help you out during those days.
• Have someone else drive to and from your appointments.
• Try one of the alternative or complementary methods of dealing with fatigue. Many people find that yoga, therapeutic music, biofeedback and other methods help with energy and control pain.
• Have a doctor check your blood for anemia, which is a side effect of many types of mesothelioma therapy.
• Eat small, nutritious meals throughout the day rather than two or three large meals. The benefits of good nutrition are immense.
• Don't be too hard on yourself. If you're tired, rest or nap without feeling guilty.

Dealing with Nausea

• Nausea is one of the more unpleasant side effects of chemotherapy, radiation and pain medications. The doctor may prescribe anti-emetics to help control nausea and vomiting.
• Avoid sweet, fatty and fried foods, which tend to make nausea worse.
• Space out meals over the course of the day. Several small meals with snacks in between may reduce the occurrence of nausea and vomiting.
• Eat a light snack or meal before your mesothelioma treatment. Since there may be a long wait at the treatment center, some experts recommend bringing a snack so that you're not receiving treatment on an empty stomach.
• Complementary therapies can be helpful in dealing with nausea. Speak with a nutritionist about foods and meals that may reduce nausea.
• Eat foods that appeal to you.
• Make eating convenient. It can be tempting to skip meals when you are too tired to prepare something to eat. Keep foods like sliced fruits, chilled vegetables, soups and other items on hand.

Dealing with Constipation

• Constipation nearly always accompanies treatment with opioid pain medications. Knowing that in advance can help you prepare for it.
• Your doctor may be able to prescribe stool softeners or other medications to relieve constipation.
• A nutritious diet with plenty of fluids and fresh fruits and vegetables will help keep constipation to a minimum.

Dealing with Hair Loss

Chemotherapy does not always cause hair loss, but when it does, it can be a particularly distressing side effect. Consider wigs, turbans or hats to minimize the effect on your appearance. Your hair will grow back after treatment, but in the meantime, combat the emotional effects by doing something that makes you feel good about yourself.

Planning Ahead to Reduce Side Effects

The most important step you can take to help deal with side effects is planning. Discuss possible side effects with a doctor before starting treatment. Once therapy begins, keep track of side effects so you can discuss them with your doctor. The American Cancer Society has developed a worksheet that you can download to help track side effects easily.

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