Managing Side Effects During Multiple Chemotherapy Sessions for Breast Cancer

Some common side effects and how to deal with them

Here are the most common side effects that people have during multiple chemotherapy sessions, along with some helpful tips for dealing with them.

1. Tiredness (Extreme Tiredness)

One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer is tiredness. You might still feel tired after resting or sleeping.

Why it happens:

Chemo affects red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen. You feel tired and weak when your body doesn't have enough of them.

How to deal with it:

• Take short naps during the day.
• Do light activities like walking or stretching.
• Get help with chores around the house
• Eat foods high in iron, such as lentils, spinach, and nuts.
• If it gets worse, tell your doctor. They may check for anemia.

2. Feeling sick and throwing up

Some chemotherapy drugs can make you sick or make you throw up. It's common during or after sessions, but not everyone does.

How to deal with it:

• Eat small meals all day long.
• Don't eat foods that are greasy, spicy, or smell bad.
• Drink clear liquids like coconut water, ginger tea, or drinks with electrolytes.
• Take the anti-nausea medicine your doctor gave you.
• Ginger and peppermint may help naturally ease nausea.

3. Losing hair

For many women, losing their hair is one of the hardest things to deal with emotionally.

Why it happens:

Chemotherapy attacks cells that grow quickly. Hair follicles grow quickly, so they are affected as well.

How to deal:

• Use a soft brush and a mild shampoo.
• Before treatment, cut your hair short (some people think this makes the change easier).
• If it makes you feel better, think about wearing scarves, hats, or wigs.
• Keep in mind that hair loss is only temporary; your hair will grow back after treatment ends.

4. Changes in how things taste and how hungry you are

Food may taste like metal, be bland, or just not right. You might not want to eat at all.

How to take care of it:

• To make the food taste better, try using different spices and seasonings.
• To avoid strong smells, eat foods that are cool or at room temperature.
• Use plastic utensils to cut down on the metallic taste.
• Eat small meals often.
• Snacks with a lot of protein, like yogurt, boiled eggs, or nuts, can help.

5. Sores in the mouth

Chemotherapy can make the inside of your mouth hurt or feel sensitive.

Ways to feel better:

• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to brush your teeth.
• Use salt water to rinse your mouth (stay away from mouthwashes that have alcohol in them)
• Stay away from foods that are hot, spicy, or acidic.
• During chemotherapy, suck on ice chips to keep sores from forming.

6. Weak immune system and higher chance of getting sick

Chemo lowers the number of white blood cells in your body, which makes you more likely to get sick.

How to stay safe:

• Wash your hands often
• Stay away from sick people and crowded places.
• Make sure to cook food all the way through and store it correctly.
• If you have a fever, chills, or any other sign of infection, tell your doctor.

7. Mood Swings

During chemotherapy, it's normal to feel anxious, sad, or angry. You might even feel guilty or angry.

How to deal with your feelings:

• Speak with a psychologist or counselor.
• Get involved in a cancer support group
• Keep a journal
• Meditate or do deep breathing
• Spend time with people you love who make you feel safe and supported.

Being active while getting treatment

You don't have to go to the gym, but doing some light activity is good for you.

• Helps you feel less tired
• Makes you feel better and helps you sleep.
• Keeps your joints and muscles strong
• Helps with digestion

Try yoga, walking in nature, or stretching at home. Before you start anything new, always talk to your doctor.

You are stronger than you think.

You get closer to healing with each session. The side effects can be hard to deal with, but if you have the right information, support, and care, you can get through them and stay strong, both physically and mentally.

If you or someone you care about is getting chemotherapy for breast cancer, getting help from an expert can make a big difference.

Oncare Hospital offers individualized treatment plans, supportive care, and the most up-to-date information on chemotherapy and breast cancer research. Oncare Hospital is one of the best places to get chemotherapy for breast cancer because it has skilled oncologists and a caring staff that helps patients fight with strength, hope, and dignity every step of the way.