Radiation therapy applications have an important place in the fight against cancer. For cancer patients receiving radiotherapy, taking protective measures helps the patient complete the process in a healthy way. While treatment is planned individually during this period, patients should also pay attention to some important points. Specialist from the Department of Radiation Oncology. Dr. Mehmet Murat Akın made important suggestions for patients receiving radiotherapy before April 1-7 Cancer Week.
Pay attention to healthy nutrition
Healthy nutrition is important at every stage of cancer disease. It is very important. A balanced nutrition plan should be made to prevent weight loss. It would be correct to consume meals in frequent and small meals. Appetite-increasing factors such as silence, calming music, and dim light can be used. In this process, getting help from a specialist dietician would be the best option.
Do not pay attention to the hair that will fall out
The hair in the area where the treatment is applied may fall out towards the end of the treatment. This only covers the area where the radiotherapy beam is applied. It does not affect other parts of the body. For this reason, they should not experience any stress and should not make any attempt to prevent hair loss. It should not be forgotten that the body will return to its previous state after treatment and that this situation is temporary.
Inform your doctor about the medications you use
After the diagnosis is made, before starting the treatment, consult the doctor about the medications used. Information should be given about all medications. If different medications need to be used after starting the treatment, a radiotherapy specialist should be consulted about these medications.
Be sure to rest before and after the treatment
Radiotherapy patients should be adequately treated before and after the treatment. He should rest and try to sleep when he needs to. Because the body will spend a lot of energy during the treatment. Therefore, it is normal for the patient to feel tired. The feeling of fatigue may last up to 4-6 weeks even after the end of the treatment.
Choose comfortable clothes that do not tighten the body
Especially in the treatment area. Wearing tight, nylon-containing clothing that constricts intimate areas should be avoided. Cotton content, wide, comfortable, warm Anti-slip clothing should be preferred.
Take care of your skin during the treatment
Since the skin becomes sensitive during the treatment, without the advice of a doctor; Soap, lotion, perfume, deodorant and similar cosmetic products should not be used. Scrubs and washcloths should not be applied during bathing, and a shower should be taken with warm water. Electric machines should be used when shaving and depilatory creams should be avoided. You should be protected from sunlight and if you need to go out, early morning hours or evening hours after sunset should be preferred. Sunscreen creams can be used under the supervision of a doctor.
Keep in touch with your doctor or nurse
Radiotherapy is a treatment process that requires attention. In order to go through this process more healthily, one should always be in communication with the doctor or nurse and get the necessary answers regarding any question or doubt. The people who will provide the most accurate information about the side effects of the treatment, home care and other issues are the doctors and nurses who are with the patient during this process.
Do not hesitate to get psychological support
Patients receiving cancer treatment; may become depressed, angry and sensitive. In patients receiving radiotherapy, there may also be an indirect effect due to fatigue or hormonal changes. Patients can get through this difficult process with the right psychology by getting expert help.
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