Cancer treatment often brings about changes that go far beyond the diagnosis itself. From physical side effects to emotional changes that can affect how you feel about your body, the experience can be challenging and deeply personal. Understanding what to expect and knowing what support is available can make the journey more manageable. Oncology Nurse Navigator Shelisa Cager explains some of the most common changes you can expect during treatment and highlights supportive options that can help you manage these changes while maintaining your well-being throughout your cancer journey.
Common physical side effects of cancer treatment
Cancer treatments can affect the body in many ways, often within just a few weeks of starting treatment. Some of the more common side effects include:
- hair loss – Hair loss can be one of the most visible and emotionally challenging side effects. Although hair loss can occur with any treatment that affects hormone levels, it is more common with chemotherapy. Because chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, hair follicles are usually affected. When hair grows back, it may vary in volume, texture or color. Programs like Look Good, Feel Better can support your confidence by providing guidance on wig selection and care and sharing creative ways to style scarves, turbans and hats.
- Skin sensitivity – Many treatments can increase skin sensitivity. Using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is essential to protecting your skin from UV rays and preventing further damage.
- fatigue – Fatigue is one of the most universal side effects of treatment. There are many different reasons you may feel tired, including pain, emotional changes, sleep disturbances, nutritional deficiencies or changes in activity level. Addressing these underlying conditions and focusing on exercise and diet are the main ways you can combat fatigue.
- Sudden Menopause – Chemotherapy can sometimes cause sudden menopause by suppressing ovarian function and lowering your estrogen levels. When estrogen declines, you may experience symptoms associated with menopause. This experience may vary depending on your age. Older patients often experience fewer or less severe symptoms compared to younger patients.
- Weight Fluctuations – Some women gain weight during treatment due to inactivity or steroids, which can lead to fluid retention. On the other hand, some women lose weight because changes in taste make food less appealing or because metabolic changes, such as high volume burden, increase calorie burn. Talking to a dietitian can help you determine what to eat, manage taste changes, and maintain proper nutrition throughout treatment.
Cold Capping: A New Treatment for Hair Loss Prevention
Cold Capping is a relatively new treatment designed to reduce hair loss during cancer treatments. It involves the use of a special cap filled with cold liquid or gel before, during and after the treatment. The low temperature reduces blood flow to the scalp to protect the hair follicles from chemotherapy drugs. There are two main types of cold caps:
- Handbook Cold caps require changing the cap at regular intervals with the help of a trained assistant. While this option is generally more affordable, it is also more labor intensive.
- Mechanical cold caps, which must be properly placed on your head, use a continuous cooling system that keeps the cap at a constant temperature throughout the infusion. Talk to your oncology team to make sure machine-based colds are available during your infusion appointment.
While cold capping doesn’t work for everyone, studies show that up to 80% of patients benefit, with many keeping more than half their hair. Even women with more significant hair loss notice that hair regrowth occurs faster after using the cold cap.
Fertility issues
Women’s oncology nurse navigators can refer you to a fertility specialist who can explain the options available to you and guide you about the timing of procedures if you are concerned about fertility. In some cases, you may need to coordinate fertility preservation decisions with treatment plans to avoid delaying treatment or affecting outcomes. Consulting with a specialist as early as possible ensures that you have the expert guidance to make informed decisions about your future family planning.
Rebuilding your confidence and embracing your body
Changes to your body during cancer treatment may affect your appearance and how you see yourself, but they do not define your worth or femininity. Rebuilding trust can take time, and finding support is a critical part of the process. Woman’s has many support groups that provide a safe space to navigate change, process your feelings, and share experiences with others who have faced similar challenges. Regardless of age, stage of cancer or point of treatment, support is available to you. Embracing your body, leaning on your community, and allowing yourself to heal can help you rediscover the power, self-expression, and confidence that feels uniquely yours.
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