Countermeasures
Nowadays there are several ways to counteract the various side effects. For example, patients are often given substances that prevent nausea and vomiting before chemotherapy, thus increasing their sense of well-being. Since damage to the oral mucosa often occurs during the course of chemotherapy, it should first be examined by a dentist and possible weak points should be repaired.
During therapy with cytostatic drugs, it is recommended to use a soft toothbrush. The damage to the intestinal mucosa often leads to diarrhea. Hard and angular food should be avoided.
Food should only be lightly seasoned. In addition, an ample fluid intake is recommended. Smoking and alcohol consumption must be avoided during therapy.
Since it becomes increasingly difficult to find a suitable vein for the infusion during the course of therapy, a port system is implanted right at the beginning. This is usually placed in the collarbone area and allows direct access to a very large vein in the thorax. To prevent hair loss, a wig can be made in advance.
After some time, however, the hair grows back on its own. However, they may then look slightly different. Despite the measures taken against the side effect, it may be necessary to interrupt or discontinue the therapy with a cytostatic drug.
Consequential damages
One of the consequences of chemotherapy is infertility. This can occur in both women and men and depends on the duration and aggressiveness of the therapy. Men are therefore recommended to freeze a sperm donation before starting therapy.
Since pregnancy causes damage to the unborn child, women should not become pregnant during and up to two years after chemotherapy. In this case, a safe method of contraception must be used. Damage to the organs that occurs during chemotherapy can also remain as consequential damage. However, this varies from patient to patient and is usually not predictable.
