The most widely known side effects of chemotherapy are hair loss, nausea, and loss of appetite. But according to Lisa C. Richardson, MD, MPH, patients are least informed about neutropenia. Neutropenia is a side effect of chemotherapy in which a patient has a low white blood cell count.
Simply put, chemotherapy works by killing fast-growing cells. Unfortunately, it also kills healthy white blood cells along with the intended target: cancer cells. We all know that white blood cells are our bodies‘ main defense to infections and antigens. Patients undergoing chemo are more susceptible to infections (some more serious than others). Here are 10 things every chemo patient should do to protect themselves from further sickness.
1. Ask your doctor to analyze your chemotherapy schedule to determine when your white blood cell count will most likely be at its lowest. Be extra cautious at this time.
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2. Know the signs of infection. These include:
- Chills and sweats
- Constant coughing/sore throat/nasal congestion
- Shortness of breath
- Increased frequency of urination/ burning sensation during urination
- A stiff neck
- Unusual vaginal discharge or irritation
- Redness/soreness/swelling
- Diarrhea/vomiting
- Changes in your skin
- Changes in your mental status
3. Periodically check your temperature. If your body temperature is 100 degrees or higher, chances are you have a fever. In this case, call your doctor immediately.This is a sign of a fever, which in turn can be sign of an infection.
4. Wash your hands with soap and water often. This is a simple way to keep from getting sick. Ask others who interact with you to do the same. This may feel uncomfortable at first but it has to be done. Your friends and family will understand.
5. Ask your doctor if he or she recommends that you get a seasonal flu shot. Many patients do.
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6. Take all of your medication. Make sure that you have enough medication and also, make sure you don’t take anyone else’s medication.
7. Keep your catheter/port clean and dry. Don’t forget to wash your hands before you touch it!
8. Hygiene is key.
- Bathe every day using warm water and mild soap.
- Avoid soaking in hot tubs.
- Pay special attention to areas that get sweaty, such as armpits. Keep it all clean!
- Do not rub skin with a towel — pat it dry instead. Your skin will be too sensitive for harshness of rubbing a towel on it.
- Use unscented lotion or moisturizing cream on your skin after it has dried completely.
9. Avoid certain foods, such as:
- Undercooked meat
- Raw or unpasteurized products (check the label on dairy products like milk and cheese. Avoid certain juices. These products may contain a bacteria that can cause illness.
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables.
10. Most importantly: Still enjoy life!
