Living With Cancer | Sharing Diagnosis | After Treatment | Quality of Life | Caregiving | Family & Friends

There are several side effects to treatment and cancer itself, that are themselves difficult to get used to. Some of the side effects may include:

Fatigue
Sexual Problems
Breathlessness
Pain
Anxiety
and Depression

The fatigue that cancer patients often suffer from can be so dehabilitating, that not even a full nights sleep brings relief. During recovery patients regain much needed strength. To treat the fatigue, minimize time in bed. Exercise will help to strengthen your body, and help prevent depression. Eating well helps to ward off fatigue as well.

When experiencing pain, don't be afraid to tell your doctor. He is your advocate for pain relief, and telling him your symptoms may help him to understand what is happening with your body.

Depression should be evaluated and treated promptly. Signs that treatment is need include having feelings of depression that continue to intensify, rather than lift. Talk to your doctor if your depression is keeping you from things you normally enjoy, or if it produces thoughts of death or suicide.

Caregivers >>