What to do with headache after radiotherapy and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma? How to take care of yourself after radiotherapy

I have a headache after radiotherapy and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. I feel very uncomfortable. What should I do at this time? How can I take care of myself after radiotherapy to relieve the pain?

1. Headache during radiotherapy is caused by swelling of the tumor and radiation field tissue after radiotherapy and compression of surrounding tissue. It is common in patients with skull base bone destruction. In addition to symptomatic analgesics, 20% mannitol 250ml can be used within 2 hours after radiation on the same day. Rapid intravenous drip can relieve pain in a short time. If the effect is not good, dexamethasone 100mg can be added to 100ml of 10% glucose injection for intravenous drip. Use it once a day after radiotherapy for 3 to 5 consecutive days.

2. Psychological counseling should be provided for the post-radiotherapy care of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Usually, nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients start radiotherapy without time to adjust their mentality after diagnosis. It is normal to have these psychological activities. We should learn to conduct self-psychological counseling, adjust our mental state, learn some health care knowledge, arrange our life after illness, understand the effect of radiotherapy, and readjust our relationship with family, friends, colleagues and leaders.

3. Maintain an open and cheerful attitude, divert negative attention, cultivate a wide range of interests and hobbies such as reading, painting, sweaters, listening to music, etc., participate in social activities, actively seek a happy life, and improve the quality of life.

4. The nasopharynx is rich in blood vessels. Some nasopharyngeal tumors will cause ulcers after a certain period of growth. Radiation can cause local mucosal tissue damage and easy bleeding. Do not pinch your nose, pick your nose, or blow your nose hard. If there is a small amount of bleeding, you can put an ice pack on the upper part of the nose or use 1% furazolidone ephedrine drops in the nose; if there is heavy bleeding, immediately tilt your head to one side, press the external carotid artery with your fingers to stop the bleeding, and quickly notify medical staff.