There are a number of treatment methods available to deal with cancer. The treatment procedure opted for depends on a number of factors such as the type of cancer, stage, physical health, and age of the individual. Some common options are chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Out of these, chemotherapy and radiation, in particular, are main cancer treatments that can cause prolonged side effects.

• Nausea and vomiting: One of the main side effects of cancer treatments, these can severely affect the quality of one’s life. Nausea refers to the sensation of feeling like one might throw up at any time whereas vomiting can occur due to certain smells, anxiety, or taste. These side effects can occur before, during or after the treatment. If not kept under control, they can lead to further problems like dehydration, malnutrition, and loss of appetite. Anti-nausea medications, drinking more fluids, and eating small and regular meals are some options that will help in easing these symptoms.
• Hair loss: Also known as alopecia, hair loss is one of the main side effects of cancer treatments. Treatment methods like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy affect the cells responsible for hair growth. Different treatment methods affect them differently. In the case of chemotherapy, the hair usually starts falling after 2-3 weeks of starting the therapy and it usually starts growing back once the treatment procedure is over. During radiation therapy, hair fall occurs only in the area of treatment and there is a possibility that hair might not grow back after it is done. To cope with the thinning of hair, it is necessary to keep the scalp clean, use natural products for hair care, and avoid the use of hair dryers. Other ways to deal with hair loss are wearing caps or wigs and keeping the hair short.
• Diarrhea: The main side effects of cancer treatments include frequent bowel movements in soft, loose, or watery forms known as diarrhea. Chemotherapy medications for cancer can cause uncontrolled bowel movements and lead to dehydration and low levels of salt in the body. Eating foods that are easy to digest and drinking plenty of fluids will help in preventing and coping with this.
• Mouth sores: Mouth sores can be caused due to certain medications or treatments used for treating cancer disease. They appear in the inner lining of lips, gums, or cheeks and in some cases extend into the esophagus. To deal with mouth sores, pain-relieving medications and ointments can be prescribed. Also maintaining good oral hygiene, eating healthy and nutritious foods, and avoiding smoking can help in reducing the chances of developing mouth sores.

Most of the main side effects of cancer treatments start improving after a week or two of the completion of treatment procedures. Also, maintaining a positive attitude towards the treatment, eating healthy foods, and avoiding spicy and junk foods can help cope with the side effects of cancer.