Phone (630) 654 1790
Fax (630) 654 1845
info@hhoaltd.com
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 Each patient experiences chemotherapy differently. We teach our patients about the side effects that are related to each drug and how to handle them. But as we all know, everyone has different side effects and to different degrees. Spring and summer are fast approaching. There are side effects of chemotherapy that are specific to these seasons. Following are suggestions on how to cope with these side effects and enjoy the change of seasons. Skin Summertime brings warm weather, water and sun. All these components are very harsh on the skin, which is our number one protection against infection. We need to keep it healthy and intact so that it can continue this function. It is important to use daily moisturizing skin lotion. It is especially helpful if this can be done after a shower or bath to “lock in” the moisture. Any over-the-counter moisturizer is effective as long as it is applied regularly. Our face and hands are affected the most and damaging to the skin. While on intravenous and oral chemotherapy, your skin is more sensitive to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. This means you will burn more easily in a shorter period of time. Radiation therapy puts you at greater risk for burns in any areas that have been irradiated. Apply SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15-45 for any sun exposure. Be extra careful on those areas that may be forgotten such as neck, scalp, ears and tops of feet. Infection Patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy or radiation are more susceptible to infection. Thus you need to adjust some of your summertime activities. Bacteria thrive in soil and plants. During the spring, when you want to add some color to your yard, you need to take extra precaution. When gardening, it is important to wear gardening gloves. Gloves help to keep the dirt away from our skin and prevent bacteria from entering our bodies through small cuts or abrasions. It is important to wash your hands after gardening. It is also the time for mosquitoes, bees and spiders to bite, which can cause infections, especially for patients with a mastectomy and lymph node dissection. If you do experience a bite or cut during the summer and the area becomes red, tender or warm, please call the office and speak to a nurse. Dehydration Dehydration caused by chemotherapy, is increased even more during summer months. Therefore, it is imperative that fluids are increased. Carry a water bottle. Keep a variety of cold beverages, popsicles and fresh fruits available as a tasty reminder to increase your fluids. Signs of dehydration are dry mouth, dizziness, lightheadedness, heart palpitation and weakness. If you feel you have become dehydrated, slowly start drinking fluids or call the office for further instructions. Dyspnea Dyspnea is defined as labored or difficult breathing. The increased heat and humidity of summer cause your lungs and heart to work harder and you may find yourself short of breath, lightheaded and more fatigued. This does not mean you cannot go outside. What this does mean is that you need to change the time of day or length of outside activity. If you enjoy walking, gardening, golfing, swimming or other outdoor activities, you may need to do these activities in the early morning when the heat and humidity are less. Remember to bring a water or sports drink bottle on your outing. If, at any time, you do have dyspnea please immediately go inside, preferably to an air-conditioned space, and rest. If the symptoms do not resolve within ten minutes or you experience chest pain, please call the office or go to the closet Emergency Department. We hope that these suggestions will help you enjoy spring and summer and the special activities these seasons bring. Please be careful and follow the above guidelines. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to call and speak with a nurse. Enjoy the Spring and Summer Safely! |
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