Introduction: The second most leading cause of death in the world is Cancer but the survival rate of many types of cancer is improving day-by- day. It can affect every aspect of your body, including your diet, appetite, and your physical and mental health as well. If you are going to get chemotherapy for the first time, you are more likely to get infections. Your body has its own immune system that helps it protect itself from getting infected but cancer and its treatment can both damage your immune system by reducing the number of white blood cells which are infection-fighting in nature. This is called Neutropenia and can lead to sepsis. This can be a life-threatening medical emergency.
You should be a little extra vigilant and attentive in the process of treatment. Here are some points that you should consider during cancer treatment:
1. Keep a positive attitude: To Maintain a positive attitude, first you have to say that you don’t always have to be positive. You have to allow yourself to grieve, fear, anger, frustration, and cry. You will feel relieved when you allow yourself to express your emotions and feelings. Add positive people to your life who give you positive energy, encourage you, and support you throughout the treatment. Listening to uplifting music and reading inspirational books can help you a lot. Keep away from toxic and negative people.
2. Take a balanced diet: Cancer patients should eat food which is high in proteins, vitamins, minerals, whole grains, and healthy fats. Some of the best proteins to eat during chemotherapy are plant-based produce which have the highest levels of proteins, in addition to vitamins and minerals.
3. Keep yourself hydrated: Make sure you drink plenty of water, juices, and milk during the treatment because vomiting and diarrhea are the side effects that can cause you to become dehydrated. This will not only cause dehydration but can also lead to many other health issues.
4. Have a good rest: Tiredness is the most common side effect which has been experienced by cancer patients. Especially Chemotherapy patients need a lot of rest and should avoid putting themselves too hard even when they are feeling good. Getting back to your regular energy will take a lot of time and patience. You should reach out to your people when you need their help.
5. Save yourself from any infection: Cancer kills the cells which immune our body from infection. During this time our white blood cells are likely to be lowest and you are at the most risk of getting the infection. The most effective way to prevent infection is to wash your hands frequently, avoid people who are sick, watch out for fever, practice hygiene, and don’t eat uncooked meat.
This is the time to go easy with yourself. Pay attention to your body and have a positive attitude that no one can break. To lower the cost of cancer treatment, you can have health insurance which will cut down your expenses as well as you will also get the proper medication that is required.
