Chemotherapy has a wide range of medications, depending on what is
prescribed the patient may experience nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, loss of
appetite, compromised immune system, hair loss, and fatigue. These are
temporary and will stop after the treatment is complete.
The side effects of chemo will vary from person to person, and even vary
from treatment to treatment with the same individual. Medication is available
to help with many side effects and attempts are made to keep side effects to a
minimum.
Radiation causes fatigue and some people experience skin reactions
such as dryness or redness. It is best to keep your skin protected from the
sun, but only use lotion or cream if it is recommended by the doctor. Cover
your skin with clothing when you must be exposed. Long sleeve shirts, hats,
pants, covered shoes, sunglasses, etc.
Surgery is a major stress on the body and requires proper time to
heal and watching for infections. In the case of amputations, the side effects
will be after-effects in regards to physical therapy and the practical matters
of learning how to use the artificial limb, and the psychological effects
of the natural one no longer being there. Therapy may be recommended.
Amputees (along with all cancer survivors) are encouraged to meet other
patients through self-help and support groups. Many people
have found it very encouraging and therapeutic to talk to others who are
experiencing the same difficulties, or have faced the same challenges and
overcome them.
Any cancer survivor, of any type of cancer, needs a support system
when they are done with treatments and trying to integrate back into a “normal”
life. Some people are surrounded with family and friends who are willing and
able to do what is necessary. Some people aren’t. Those without that framework
should speak to the doctors and nurses about that need, they may be able to make
suggestions. Also, hospitals and clinics usually have a social worker on
site who can suggest national and local groups that may be able to assist with transportation,
home care, financial aid, emotional support, rehabilitation, and other
unseen matters that might arise.