CHEMO COMPLICATIONS continued

 

            Constipation can be relieved by including more high fiber foods such as bran cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and wheat germ in your diet. Drink plenty of liquids and remember prune juice is a natural laxative. Light daily exercise also aids regularity (if your condition will allow).

            Certain drugs know as alkylating agents require an increase in the amount of fluids taken before, during and after treatment. These drugs produce uric acid, and adequate hydration is necessary to eliminate this by-product. Other drugs known as hormones can cause fluid retention and an increase in appetite. Fluid retention usually can be controlled with diuretics and/or a sodium restricted diet.

            An increased appetite needs increased physical activity or some other alternate activity to keep it under control. Limiting the consumption of sweets and fats and choosing low-calorie foods such as lean broiled, baked or roasted meats, raw fruits and vegetables, low-fat milk and cheeses, whole grain breads and cereals and diet beverages can get you through periods of increased appetite without extra baggage.

            If side effects become severe and are prolonged, medications can be prescribed by your doctor to help control the, and treatments can be adjusted.

 

                                                            CHEMOTHERAPY HINTS

 

            1.  If your are taking chemotherapy and your mouth is sore, gargle with one teaspoon of baking                     soda in a half glass of water, also some folks report that drinking carrot juice helps.

            2.  If the above does not work for you, there is also a prescription mouth wash available through your oncologist, or perhaps your regular Dr. can give you the same prescription.

            3.   Eat the right foods to build up your strength.

            4.  Stay away from people who have colds or the flu, you are very susceptible to germs at this time.

            5.  Get the rest you need and pace yourself.

            6.  Talk about your feelings to deal with any sadness, anger, or fear you may have.

            7.  Be sure you tell either your Doctor or Nurse if you are having specific problems, such as side

                 effects no one mentioned, they usually  have a solution.

            8.  Do not take any other medications, unless prescribed by your Doctor.

 

 

                                                                                 68