Navigating Chemotherapy: My Journey Through Common Side Effects

As I navigated through my chemotherapy journey, I encountered various side effects that challenged both my physical and emotional well-being. Sharing my experiences and the strategies I use to manage these side effects may help others who are on a similar path.

Fatigue: The level of exhaustion brought on by chemotherapy was unlike any tiredness I’ve felt before. It doesn’t simply go away with a good night’s sleep. I’ve found that balancing rest with gentle activities, like short walks, helped maintain my energy. On days when I felt particularly drained, I gave myself permission to rest and recover without guilt.
Nausea and Vomiting: These were some of the most distressing side effects I dealt with. Thankfully, my healthcare team provided me with effective anti-nausea medication. I stuck to eating small, frequent meals, which seemed easier on my stomach than larger meals. I also steered clear of strong odors and stuck to bland, easier-to-digest foods.
Hair Loss: The thought of losing my hair was emotionally tough; it was a visible sign of my illness that everyone could see. To prepare, I cut my hair short so it wasn’t such a shock to see so much hair falling out. Also, knowing that the Cancer Center I went to offered wigs and scarves to cancer patients helped.
Increased Risk of Infections: Since chemotherapy weakens the immune system, I became more aware of my hygiene. Regular handwashing, avoiding crowded places, and keeping distance from sick friends or family were part of my daily routine. These simple measures were crucial for keeping infections at bay.
Mucositis: The soreness in my mouth and throat were unexpected and was quite uncomfortable. Maintaining good oral hygiene and using special mouthwashes prescribed by my oncologist had become essential. I stuck to soft foods that didn’t irritate my mouth, which made eating less painful.
Cognitive Changes: Sometimes known as “chemo brain,” I noticed I wasn’t as sharp as I used to be. I struggled with memory lapses (and still do) and had trouble concentrating. To manage this, it’s important to engage in mental exercises, keep detailed lists, and rely on reminders to help with my daily tasks.
Emotional Rollercoaster: The emotional impact of chemotherapy was profound. I’ve felt waves of anxiety and sadness. Support from my family and friends was my lifeline. I also joined support groups, where sharing my journey and hearing others’ stories was incredibly comforting and empowering.

Conclusion:

Dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy is a multifaceted battle, requiring resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned that preparation and proactive management can significantly ease this challenging journey. Staying in close communication with my medical team and reaching out for support had enabled me to not just endure but actively manage my treatment process. It was a tough journey, but I was and I am still determined to keep fighting.

If you’d like to learn more about my journey, go to my website at https://leannmfrank.com/