What You Need to Know About Cancer Treatment: Nutrition, Hair loss, Oral Care……

Anticancer drugs work by disrupting the growth of tumor cells and can be administered in different ways. To ensure the effectiveness and safety of your treatment, please inform your nurse and doctor about any over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, or complementary therapies you are currently using — as these may affect your cancer treatment. Make sure you know the name of your anticancer medication, or ask your care team for the detailed medication guide related to your treatment.


Regardless of the treatment method you receive, the following guidance can help you take better care of yourself during therapy.


Nutrition
●    Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day — for example, six small meals instead of three large ones.
●    Chew food slowly and eat at a relaxed pace.
●    Unless you have severe kidney problems, include protein in every meal. Protein helps maintain strength during treatment. Good sources include chicken, turkey, soy products, beans, fish, cheese, eggs, and dairy products.
●    Drink small amounts of fluids frequently during the day, but avoid drinking large volumes during meals to prevent bloating.
●    Try to consume at least 240 ml of fluids daily, such as water, juices (apple or cranberry), milk, soups, yogurt, gelatin, or popsicles.


Hair Loss
●    Some anticancer drugs may cause temporary hair thinning or hair loss. Ask your care team whether your treatment includes such medications.
●    If needed, consult your healthcare provider for guidance on selecting a suitable wig.


Infection Prevention
●    When your white blood cell or neutrophil count is low, avoid crowds and people with contagious illnesses such as colds or the flu.
●    Bathe daily to keep your body clean, unless you have open wounds.
●    Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the restroom.


Nausea Prevention
●    Your doctor may prescribe anti-nausea medications. Take them exactly as directed, and contact your healthcare team if problems persist.
●    Eat foods that are cool or at room temperature (some specific drugs may require avoiding cold foods—consult your care team).
●    Avoid foods with strong odors; cooler foods usually have milder smells.
●    Some people find fatty, fried, spicy, or acidic foods unpleasant during treatment — but if you normally tolerate them well, you may continue eating them.


Sun Exposure
●   Avoid direct sunlight as anticancer drugs can make your skin more sensitive.
●    If you must go outdoors, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every 2 hours, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
●    Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat to protect your scalp, face, and ears.


Sexual Activity and Fertility
●    Maintaining intimacy is important for emotional well-being, but both men and women should use contraception during anticancer treatment.
●    Menstrual irregularities or even temporary amenorrhea may occur, but this does not mean pregnancy is impossible.
●    For several days after completing treatment, use condoms to protect your partner, as traces of anticancer drugs may remain in body fluids. Ask your care team for drug-specific guidance.
●    Anticancer therapy may temporarily or permanently affect fertility. If you have concerns, discuss options with your doctor before starting treatment.


Fatigue
●    Pace yourself. Prioritize important tasks and take short naps when needed.
●    Stay active. Gentle exercise can help boost energy and improve mood.
●    For persistent cancer-related fatigue, consult your care team for tailored advice.


Oral Care
●    Brush your teeth after every meal and before bedtime using a soft toothbrush.
●    Use dental floss gently. If your platelet count is low, or if you experience bleeding gums or clotting problems, inform your care team immediately.
●    Rinse your mouth often with warm salt water or baking soda solution (add one toothpaste-cap amount, about 3 g, of salt or baking soda to 240 ml of water).
●    You may also use other non-alcohol mouth rinses.
●    Keep lips moisturized with lip balm.
●    If your mouth feels dry, try artificial saliva sprays or simply rinse with water frequently.
●    Avoid wearing dentures or braces when your mouth is sore, and clean them thoroughly after meals.
●    Always consult your care team before any dental procedures.


Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following persistent or severe symptoms that do not improve with prescribed medication:
●   Fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F)
●   Chills
●   Unexplained bleeding or bruising
●   Sore throat or difficulty swallowing
●   Mouth or lip ulcers that interfere with eating
●   Persistent dizziness
●   Urination problems (pain, burning, urgency, frequency, incomplete emptying)
●   Flu-like symptoms (fever, runny nose, body aches)
●   Extreme fatigue or weakness
●   Persistent cough or shortness of breath
●   Anxiety, irritability, or depression
●   Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
●   Uncontrolled nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
●   New swelling of the face or limbs
●   Any unusual or unexplained pain


During your anticancer treatment, being well-informed about your therapy and potential side effects can make a big difference. For detailed information about your specific treatment, maintain close communication with your primary physician and care team. Every patient’s situation is unique — at Jiahui Health, our medical team will provide personalized, appropriate care plans to help you face and fight cancer with confidence.


We hope this information is helpful to you.