How long do side effects last? Many side effects go away fairly quickly, but some might take months or even years to go away completely. These are called late effects.
Sometimes the side effects can last a lifetime, such as when chemo causes long-term damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, or reproductive organs
.
How long does it take for your body to get back to normal after chemo?
Most people say it takes
6 to 12 months
after they finish chemotherapy before they truly feel like themselves again.
How can I rebuild my immune system after chemo?
- Eat healthy. Like any engine, your body relies on the fuel you give it. …
- Get exercise. There’s no getting away from this basic truth. …
- Aim for good sleep. …
- Eliminate tobacco and avoid alcohol. …
- Reduce stress.
How do you build muscle after chemotherapy?
- Flexibility exercises (stretching). …
- Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, and swimming. …
- Resistance training (Iifting weights or isometric exercise), which builds muscle.
What is the fastest way to recover from chemotherapy?
- Get some rest. …
- Stay hydrated. …
- Eat when you can. …
- Create a sense of normalcy in your routine. …
- Look to your support and care teams to have your back through treatment. …
- Keep things around that bring you comfort. …
- Stay ahead of your nausea. …
- Stay positive.
Do you ever recover from chemo?
When treatment ends, you may expect life to return to the way it was before you were diagnosed with cancer. But
it can take time to recover
. You may have permanent scars on your body, or you may not be able to do some things you once did easily. Or you may even have emotional scars from going through so much.
What are long-term side effects of chemotherapy?
- Cognitive difficulties.
- Hearing problems.
- Heart problems.
- Increased risk of blood cancers.
- Lung problems.
- Nerve damage.
- Reproductive changes.
- Duration.
What are long-term effects of chemo?
| Treatment Late effects | Chemotherapy Dental problems Early menopause Hearing loss Heart problems Increased risk of other cancers Infertility Loss of taste Lung disease Nerve damage Osteoporosis Reduced lung capacity |
|---|
What vitamins should I take while on chemo?
Selenium, folic acid and probiotics
have been found to be safe for use during chemotherapy treatment.
What supplements to take after chemo?
Antioxidant supplements such as
co enzyme Q10, selenium and the vitamins A, C and E
can help to prevent cell damage. So some doctors think this might stop chemotherapy working well.
Can I take vitamin C while on chemotherapy?
Avoid vitamin C if you’re on radiation therapy or chemotherapy
. Vitamin C can interfere with these treatments and decrease their effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re taking acetaminophen (paracetamol®). Vitamin C can increase the side effects of this medication.
How can I strengthen my legs after chemo?
- Straight Leg Raise – Quadriceps (thigh muscles)
- Standing Hip Flexion – Quadriceps and Iliopsoas (thigh muscles)
- Standing Hip Extension – Gluteus Musculature (buttocks)
- Standing Hip Abduction – Gluteus Medius.
- Wall Slides & Standing Squats.
- Heel Lifts – Gastrocneumius and Soleus (calf muscles)
How can I regain energy after chemo?
Drinking lots of fluids and eating well
can help keep your energy reserves up. If nausea and vomiting make it hard to eat, talk to your doctor about these side effects. Get moving. Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, riding a bike and swimming, throughout the week may help you preserve your energy level.
How can I get my energy back after chemo?
- Get moving. You might not feel like moving a muscle, but exercise can actually boost your energy. …
- Ease your mind. …
- Go easy on yourself. …
- Sleep well.
What reduces the side effects of chemotherapy?
- Counter Chemo-Induced Fatigue With Exercise. …
- Take Medication to Quell Nausea and Vomiting. …
- Consider Using a Cooling Cap to Minimize Hair Loss. …
- Beat Mouth Sores With Ice Chips. …
- Wash Your Hands Often to Avoid Infection. …
- Tell Your Doctor About Tingling in Your Hands or Feet.
How do I detox my liver after chemo?
Detoxification during or after chemotherapy should always include the foundational approaches of
maintaining high water intake, eating a proper diet rich in fiber and phytonutrients, and appropriate use of exercise
.
