It's normal to feel overwhelmed and scared when you find out you have breast cancer. We're especially nervous when we hear the word 'cancer'. But if it's early-stage breast cancer, don't worry. Simply put, this means the cancer is still limited to your breast or nearby tissues and hasn't spread to other parts of your body. There are now many good, advanced treatments to help you cope with this condition. In this article, we'll talk about how to deal with the challenges you'll face during this treatment period with ease and courage.
Let's think optimistically about the future?
First, let's talk about the good news. 90 out of every 100 people diagnosed with breast cancer live 5 years or more after treatment. This is the general time frame by which doctors measure success. Imagine, if you have stage 1 cancer, meaning the cancer is confined to the breast, this success rate increases to 99% . This is really great news, isn't it?
At the same time, we need to understand that cancer affects everyone differently. Many factors affect this, such as the type of cancer you have, your age, and your overall health. So, be open with your doctor about how these factors will affect the success of your treatment. That way, you can have a clear picture of your journey.
How do you cope with hair loss without worrying?
Cancer treatments , especially chemotherapy, can damage the hair follicles. This can cause hair loss, either completely or gradually. Sometimes only the hair on your head may thin out. However, some strong medications can also cause hair loss on your eyebrows, eyelashes, armpits, and legs.
This happens to many people, so it's nothing to be ashamed of or too worried about. Hair usually starts growing back within 3-5 months after treatment ends.
If you're worried about this, there are a few things you can do to cope. Let's look at them.
| Before starting treatment | After the hair starts falling out |
|---|---|
| Cut your hair short: This will help reduce the pain you feel when your long hair falls out. | Cover your head: Cover your head with a nice scarf or hat. |
| Ask about a cooling cap: This device that cools the scalp can help stop or reduce hair loss. Ask your doctor about this. | Protect yourself from the sun: The scalp is very sensitive to sunlight, so use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. |
| Try on a wig: Choose a wig that suits you well before starting treatment. | Use a gentle shampoo/conditioner: Unscented, gentle products like baby shampoo are best. |
| Get a doctor's prescription: Your health insurance may cover the cost of a wig. To do this, ask your doctor for a prescription for a 'cranial prosthesis'. | Use a comb instead of a brush: Comb gently to avoid damaging your scalp. Do not use hair dryers or flat irons. |
How to control nausea and vomiting?
Nausea and vomiting are common during cancer treatment. They can also be exacerbated by side effects such as dehydration and constipation. There are a few things you can do to help.
- Seek medical advice: Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce nausea. Take them at the prescribed times.
- Drink plenty of water: Unless your doctor has advised otherwise, drink small amounts of water throughout the day.
- Eat small meals : Instead of eating a large meal at once, eat small meals every few hours.
- Choose cold foods: Eating cold foods (like sandwiches and salads) that don't have strong odors can reduce nausea.
- Eat something dry in the morning: Eat dry crackers or a slice of bread as soon as you wake up in the morning.
- Before and after treatment: Eat something light for a while before and after chemo treatment.
Sometimes nausea can also be caused by stress about treatment. In such cases, it can be helpful to try ways to calm your mind. Try things like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing .
What to do about skin and nail changes?
Cancer treatments can make your skin dry, itchy, or red. Radiation therapy, in particular, can make your skin very sensitive to sunlight. Your nails may also change. They may become yellow, break, or swell around the nails.
Let's see what we can do with things like this.
| To protect the skin | To protect your nails |
|---|---|
| Use gentle, unscented moisturizers and soaps. | Cut your nails short. |
| Avoid wearing tight clothing and underwire bras. | Apply petroleum jelly to and around your nails when your skin is moist. |
| Keep the skin clean to prevent infection. | Wear gloves when doing housework. |
| Apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to your body and lips. | Avoid getting manicures or pedicures during this time. |
If these simple things don't help, definitely tell your doctor . Some skin and nail problems may require medical treatment .
How do you get relief from clothing?
At a time like this, you may not be thinking about fashion. But when your body changes due to treatment, it can be both physically and mentally uncomfortable. So there are several ways to find comfort and self-confidence through clothing.
The main thing is to be light and comfortable . You may lose or gain weight during treatment. Your skin may be very sensitive. So choose clothes that are suitable for these things.
- Pants or skirts with elastic at the waist.
- Clothes made of cotton.
- Loose-fitting dresses or blouses.
- Instead of underwired bras, wear soft camisoles. They provide the necessary support without putting pressure on the skin.
There are now clothing items specifically designed for breast cancer patients.
- A tank top or gown can hold the surgical drain placed after surgery.
- A T-shirt with a zipper for easy access to the port-a-cath that is placed in the chest for treatment.
- Soft, seamless lounge wear.
- Special underwear to wear after breast surgery or reconstruction.
Things like this will bring you great comfort and mental strength during this time.
Take-Home Message
- Early-stage breast cancer has a very good chance of being cured. So stay strong and positive.
- Side effects like hair loss, nausea, and skin problems that come with treatment are common. There are many practical ways to deal with them.
- Talk openly with your doctor not only about your physical discomfort, but also about your feelings, fears, and anxieties.
- Make comfort your priority. Comfortable clothing, light meals, and calming techniques will help you feel better.
- You don't have to go through this journey alone. Your family, friends, and medical team are all there to help you.
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