Managing cancer's side effects--staying ahead of the problems

Managing pain has become a much more effective process. The variety and types of drugs have greatly expanded and improved. The methods of dispensing the medicine has also improved, for example you can receive relief from pills, via your IV or through a patch.

I think that one of the most effective and important improvements in pain management is in the way we think about controlling the pain. The emphasis is on staying ahead of the pain -- not waiting for the pain to come to you. Taking pain medications at regular intervals is the best way to accomplish this goal. The idea is to prevent pain's physical, chemical and emotional changes from ever getting a foothold in your life.

The lesson we learned about preventing and controlling pain should be applied to other areas of your life too--especially while you are dealing with cancer treatments.

Here are some ideas about how you can stay ahead of the most likely problem areas:

• HYDRATION-- Stay hydrated--inside and out. Keep a water bottle near you--sip from it through out the day. Have regularly scheduled tea or juice breaks. Use smaller cups and glasses so that you aren't overwhelmed by portion sizes. Now that fall is here consider using a room humidifier. It will help your throat, nose and skin.
  
• NUTRITION--Eat 6-8 small meals a day. Serve small portions on small plates. Silverware can give off a metallic taste so get some fun, colorful, sturdy plastic knives, forks and spoons. Don't eat in bed. Sit at a table for each meal or snack. Try to remain in an upright position for 10-15 or 30 minutes after you eat.
  
• CONSTIPATION--not the most glamorous of topics, but hey, we're friends, we can talk about anything. Constipation is going to happen--the combination of taking pain meds, not being as active, changing eating patterns to name a few will wreak havoc on your system. Don't wait to deal with the uncomfortable side effects of constipation. Take all the meds that your medical team suggests--stool softeners, extra fiber pills etc. Also try adding 1 or two prunes to each meal. Add prune juice to your smoothies. Get up and walk around several times each day.
  
• EXERCISE--try to get outside and walk. It doesn't have to be far. Experiencing the fresh air and walking, even a short distance will be beneficial. Consider using exercise bands to keep your muscles in shape. Stretching exercises are good. Many exercise programs have been modified so that you can do them sitting in a chair. Consult with your health care team and find the right exercise program for you.
• SCHEDULE FUN--establish a movie night with family and friends. Even if you think you can't last the entire length of the film--give it a try. Have a film festival composed of the great comedies. Laugh and enjoy. In addition to giving you something to look forward to it offers your family and friends a way to participate. They can suggest and procure the movies, they can organize the room and determine the meal. It is a great way to spend a weekend evening. And of course if you are feeling like it you can see this movie at a friend's house or at a theater.
• KEEP A JOURNAL--this is a wonderful way to exercise some control over the crazy and frightening things that are happening to you. Keep track of your journey--but don't just record the negatives--try keeping a "gratitude journal."

Be proactive. You are the one in control. Dealing with cancer can make you feel powerless, but you don't have to settle for that. Staying ahead of the of the side effects will help you reclaim control of your body, mind and spirit.