Chemotherapy is a widely utilized treatment modality in the fight against cancer. While it can be effective, it often comes with various side effects that can impact a patient's quality of life.
Hence, it is crucial for patients undergoing chemotherapy to be well-prepared for the treatment journey. Facing a cancer diagnosis and undergoing chemotherapy can be emotionally daunting. Patients may experience fear, anxiety, and uncertainty about the treatment outcome and its impact on their lives.
Being mentally prepared involves accepting the diagnosis, seeking support from loved ones or support groups, and maintaining a positive outlook. In this context, knowledge is empowering, so let us explore how you can develop the resilience needed in your battle with cancer.
What To Expect in Terms of Physical Side Effects
First of all, there’s no point in trying to trick or lie to yourself about the experience. It’s always best to be honest with yourself and accept that, while some side effects can indeed be unpleasant, they are part of the healing journey. This involves a little preparation in the form of knowing what lies ahead of you.
The treatment procedure during chemotherapy will often vary depending on the type of cancer and severity, but in general, there are some universal side effects. Fatigue and nausea are commonly reported. Chemotherapy can also affect the areas of the brain responsible for regulating nausea and vomiting, further contributing to these symptoms. Hair loss is a very common side effect as well, but there are chemo hats that are specifically designed to help patients reclaim their identity during this period.
Some of the drugs you are given can irritate the lining of your gastrointestinal tract, which also contributes to the problem.
You might also hear that some medications can create side effects beyond the normal reported symptoms. According to Tru Lawsuit Info, Taxotere is one such medicine and has been found to trigger severe eye injuries. This has led to several lawsuit cases being filed against the manufacturer, Sanofi-Aventis.
The estimated Taxotere settlement amounts for affected patients currently range anywhere from $20,000 to a few hundred thousand dollars.
When you hear of such reports, it’s important that you don’t catastrophize and fear that this will happen to you as well. Yes, it’s terrible that pharmaceutical companies release medications that have such side effects, but any good doctor will tell you in advance about the risks involved.
Thus, building up mental resilience through different strategies is what you want to keep your focus on.
Practical Steps You Can Start Implementing
The first thing you have to keep in mind is to not fight your battle alone. Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, healthcare professionals, and fellow patients who can offer encouragement, empathy, and practical assistance throughout your chemotherapy journey.
Several studies have shown that a strong support system can help you deal with the journey in a more healthy way. According to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, building your support system involves telling friends and family about your diagnosis and treatment, asking for help, and connecting with fellow patients.
Find Distractions and New Perspectives
Going through multiple cycles of chemotherapy, especially when they require extended inpatient stays, can be mentally and emotionally challenging. Finding distractions and activities to pass the time can help alleviate boredom and provide a sense of normalcy during your hospital stay.
Pack a few items to keep yourself entertained during your hospital stay, but avoid overpacking. Choose items that can easily fit in your hospital bag and provide comfort and distraction when needed. Books, magazines, puzzles, or portable gaming devices can be great options for passing the time during treatment days.
A lot of patients find that bringing a Bluetooth speaker and listening to music can really help them cope better. You also can’t go wrong with comfort items, so bring your favorite pillows and snacks.
Remember that life is always going to have challenges, and try to treat the trials of chemotherapy as not too out of the ordinary. Shifting perspectives in this manner can really take the edge out of the experience.
Besides, you also have to deal with life after cancer, which comes with its own set of difficulties. According to the CDC, loneliness, anger, stress, and depression tend to arise after recovery for one reason or another. Thankfully, these feelings will pass as you adapt to normal life.
As strange as it may sound, preparing for the future can help reduce the impact of whatever is happening in the present.
hIRIn conclusion, while chemotherapy doesn’t always create a positive image, it is an important part of the treatment process. It’s also worth remembering that many people are able to adjust to the symptoms more easily than others.
Moreover, it’s always nice to remember that chemotherapy isn’t permanent. No matter how exhausting or unpleasant you find it, like all things in life, it too shall pass. This is a great comfort for many.
