Chemo- and radiotherapy have surprisingly specific dress codes: loose breathable skin-friendly fabrics that can be layered; button-down shirts or deep V-necks to access central port lines; draping to cover tubes, elastic waistbands to accommodate weight loss or bloating and shoulder pads to hold away fabric from the ...
The American Cancer Society recommends dressing in layers. Dress comfortably in sweatpants or yoga pants. Choose light materials so if you sweat, you won't feel sticky. Wear a low neck or V-neck shirt so nurses can easily place ports to administer the chemo, and bring an extra shirt in case you sweat through the first.
Wear clothes that cover you, such as long-sleeve tops, pants and long skirts. Choose tightly woven fabrics. Invest in several broad-brimmed hats. Use accessories such as scarves and shawls to cover your chest, throat and neck.
It depends on your treatment. Some people can go without extra support for a while, Frey says. But check with your health care team. You might need to wear a surgical bra.
You may want to begin with a pair of socks, which won't take up much room in your chemo bag. Wearing close-toed shoes may help keep your feet warm if the room is cold, but taking those shoes off and putting on some comfy socks can help you relax and be a lot more comfortable.
Bathe every day and use warm water. Avoid soaking in spas or hot tubs. Use a mild soap for bathing. Use a soft towel to gently wash skin.
While receiving chemotherapy you will usually be: seated in a reclining chair in a room with other patients; during treatment it's a good idea to shift your weight in the chair. able to walk around the room (e.g. if you need to go to the toilet) given anti-nausea (antiemetic) medicine so you don't feel sick.
It is safe to touch other people while on chemotherapy. You can hug and kiss. But you do need to protect others from coming into contact with your medicine. Follow these safety tips while taking your chemotherapy pills and for two days after you're done.
Chemotherapy gowns are the recommended PPE to handle HDs, according to ONS. PPE, including chemo tested gowns and gloves, need to be worn when administering treatment, and also when in contact with body fluids of patients within 48 hours of drug administration.
Make yourself comfortable
“If you have a favorite pillow or blanket, bring that with you. There will be enough time for you to nap. If you have a sleep mask, bring that with you, too. “If you have other questions, always ask.
Orange represents kidney cancer and leukemia. Green stands for liver cancer, lymphoma, and gall bladder cancer. Variations of purple signify pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, leiomyosarcoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, stomach cancer, and esophageal cancer.
Dress in warm layers - Wear layers of clothing to keep you warm at all times, indoors and outdoors. Don't forget to utilize your warm accessories such as gloves, hats, scarves, and more. Wear proper boots/shoes - Your footwear should be warm, fit well, and have good traction on the bottom.
Around the third day following a chemotherapy treatment, some people may experience flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches and pains. If you experience these aches, you can take over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Advil. If necessary, contact your doctor for stronger medication.
Crossword puzzles, Sudoku and other games are a good distraction during chemo and can keep your mind sharp, which may help ward off chemo brain. You may want to bring a crochet kit to create a scarf or hat. If a family member or friend is with you, a card game or conversation starter game can help pass the time.
Most people say it takes 6 to 12 months after they finish chemotherapy before they truly feel like themselves again. Read the resource Managing Cognitive Changes for more information about managing chemo brain.
Short, planned delays in chemotherapy for good-risk GCT patients (less than or equal to 7 days per cycle) appear to be acceptable since they may prevent serious toxicity in this curable patient population. Delays of longer than 7 days are strongly discouraged except in extraordinary life-threatening circumstances.
Chemotherapy can cause fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, bowel issues such as constipation or diarrhoea, hair loss, mouth sores, skin and nail problems. You may have trouble concentrating or remembering things. There can also be nerve and muscle effects and hearing changes. You will be at increased risk of infections.
Housekeeping and Disinfecting
If possible, don't do household chores if you don't feel well. It is better to rest if you are tired or not feeling well, as this will help your body recover from chemotherapy.
There's usually no medical reason to stop having sex during chemo. The drugs won't have any long term physical effects on your performance or enjoyment of sex. Cancer can't be passed on to your partner during sex.
Yes. It will take some extra planning and working out who can support you but it's possible to continue living alone when you have cancer. Having cancer and going through treatment raises many challenges and emotions. These may be harder to deal with when you live alone.
The length of time for chemotherapy regimens can range from 5 minutes to 8 or more hours. It all depends on the chemotherapy. Throughout the chemotherapy, your nurse will come in and check your vitals and make sure you aren't reacting to the medications.
Chemotherapy can be dehydrating. Drinking plenty of water before and after treatment helps your body process chemotherapy drugs and flush the excess out of your system.