Side
Effects of Treatment
Careful attention should
be given to avoid or minimize side effects of treatment which vary
depending on the type of therapy, dosage, and length of treatment.
Normal, healthy cells that divide rapidly, including bone marrow,
blood cells, cells of hair follicles, and cells in the reproductive
and digestive tracts, are more likely to be damaged during chemotherapy
treatment. The doctor and patient must often balance possible side
effects with potential benefits of treatment. Under a doctor's care
many side effects can be prevented or managed.
The following is a table
of the common treatment side effects that may occur due to chemotherapy,
targeted therapy,
immunotherapy, or radiation
therapy. This list is not comprehensive. Side effects are individual
and may not occur in each person receiving treatment.
| Side Effect |
Potential Management Techniques |
| Changes in taste (food may tast bland
or metallic) |
Eating tart foods may help to overcome the metallic or bitter
taste. Cold food might taste better than hot food. Changes in
the dose of the chemotherapy and radiation therapy may help. |
| Constipation |
Eat foods high in fiber. Drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids
each day. Moderate exercise can help. |
| Diarrhea or abdominal cramping |
Treat with medications
as directed by a doctor. Dietary changes can also be made
under the guidance of a dietitian. |
| Fatigue |
Treat with medications
prescribed by a doctor. Dietary changes can also be made under
the guidance of a dietitian. Taking short walks can maintain
energy and function. Taking short rests throughout the day
may help. |
| Hair Loss |
Avoid frequent hair washing and use a gentle shampoo. Gently
pat hair dry, use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush and avoid
the use of hair products and hair dryers. Wear head coverings
when outdoors. |
| Hand/Foot Syndrome |
Soak hands in cool water for 10 minutes and then apply a mild
moisturizer or petroleum jelly. Cool the skin with ice packs
to help relieve pain and tenderness. Ask the doctor if an oral
supplement of vitamin B6 is appropriate. |
| Loss of appetite |
Medications prescribed by a doctor can help stimulate appetite. |
| Lowered Blood Cell Counts |
A blood transfusion or medications prescribed by a doctor
may be required. Changes in the dose of the chemotherapy can
also increase blood cell counts. |
| Mouth Sores |
Eat soft, moist, bland foods. High protein foods will help
mouth sores recover more quickly. Avoid spicy and acidic foods.
Drinking through a straw may be helpful. Rinse your mouth with
cool water or a mild solution of baking soda and water. A soft-bristle
toothbrush may be useful. |
| Nail Changes |
Avoid biting nails, pushing back cuticles, and using fake
nails or wraps. Wear gloves while performing household chores
and moisturize hands and feet frequently. If the nail area becomes
inflamed, it may be treated with antibacterial soap or antibacterial/antifungal
ointments to prevent infection. |
| Nausea and vomiting |
Treat with medications prescribed by a doctor. Dietary changes
can also be made under the guidance of a dietitian. Using a
motion sickness wrist band may help control nausea. Also, try
wearing loose clothing and getting fresh air. |
| Neuropathy |
Protect hands and feet by wearing cotton socks or gloves and
avoiding tight-fitting shoes. Ask your doctor if pain medications
or other treatments are appropriate. |
| Skin changes (redness or irritation) |
Changes in the treatment dose and personal care methods, such
as warm water washes and using alcohol-free lotions may help
soothe the skin. Avoid direct sunlight. Contact a doctor before
using over-the-counter treatments. |
It is important to keep the
doctor informed of any side effects or pain. The doctor can only
make changes in treatment or treat side effects if he or she is
informed by the patient.
This information has been
taken from An Overview of Pancreatic Cancer, a booklet produced
by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. To receive a complimentary
copy, please contact a Patient and Liaison Services (PALS) Associate
toll free at (877) 272-6226 or email pals@pancan.org.
PALS Associates are available Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00
pm Pacific Time.
Links
to additional resources:
Pain Management
|
