What is the reaction after chemotherapy for breast cancer

Hair loss, nausea, and vomiting are common reactions to breast cancer chemotherapy. These reactions can be uncomfortable, but understanding them can help you cope better.

1. Hair loss and darkening of nails: Chemotherapy drugs affect rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicle cells, so hair loss is a common reaction. Darkening of nails is also due to the effect of chemotherapy drugs on fast-growing cells. For these appearance changes, patients can consider wearing wigs or hats and using nail care products to protect their nails.

2. Gastrointestinal reactions: Nausea and vomiting are common gastrointestinal reactions after chemotherapy. They can be relieved by adjusting your diet, such as eating small and frequent meals, avoiding greasy and irritating foods, and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Your doctor may prescribe antiemetic drugs to help control these symptoms.

3. Oral ulcers: Chemotherapy may damage the oral mucosa, causing ulcers. It is very important to maintain oral hygiene. You can use a mild mouthwash and avoid spicy and acidic foods. Nutritional supplements containing vitamin B and zinc may also help oral health.

4. Numbness in the hands and feet and peripheral nerve symptoms: These symptoms are due to the effects of chemotherapy drugs on the nervous system. Patients can relieve discomfort through massage, hot compresses, etc. If necessary, the doctor may adjust the drug dosage or change the treatment plan.

5. Bone marrow suppression and leukopenia: Chemotherapy may suppress the production of blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to leukopenia. This increases the risk of infection, and patients should pay attention to personal hygiene and avoid crowded places. Doctors may prescribe drugs to increase white blood cells or recommend the injection of growth factors.

6. Fever and infection: Due to decreased immunity, patients are prone to fever and infection. Timely medical treatment is the key, and doctors will give antibiotics or other treatments according to the specific situation. Patients should closely monitor changes in body temperature and maintain good rest and eating habits.

During chemotherapy, maintaining a positive attitude and good living habits can help patients better cope with these adverse reactions. Maintaining communication with doctors and nursing teams and timely feedback on physical changes are important parts of ensuring the smooth progress of treatment. By understanding and managing chemotherapy reactions, patients can better protect themselves and create good conditions for recovery.