I Worry About the Other Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Some side effects are common, and if you experience them, can be uncomfortable. That being said, treatment protocols have been designed to address these since they are common. Many times, your team will recommend medication for symptoms such as nausea in anticipation so that you do not have to experience them.

Fatigue is a common symptom in many medical conditions. Treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can certainly increase levels of fatigue. Getting enough rest, eating well (as much as possible – eat what you can), and self-care go a long way to decreasing symptoms. Take care of yourself and let others take care of you too. Say yes when someone offers to bring dinner (hopefully they are good cooks or will bring food from a restaurant!). Say yes when someone offers to take the kids for an afternoon. Say yes when someone offers to clean your house or send a housekeeper. You would do the same for them.

Do not suffer in silence. Tell your medical team if you are experiencing side effects. They will help you determine how to best manage them. Rely on a village of support so you can focus on recovery.