Advisor Perspectives

by Beth Taubes, RN

(View bio)
I find that one of the best ways you can help your healthcare team manage the side effects of cancer treatment is to stay in close communication. For a person diagnosed with cancer, it may be difficult to understand the different roles of the doctors, nurses, and other professionals on their healthcare team. My patients find it helpful when I explain to them who some of the key team members are:

• The oncologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of cancer and monitors progress throughout treatment. He may use case information, the results of the most recent clinical trials, and other data to discuss treatment choices with you.
• The oncology nurse is trained in the science of cancer. This nurse specializes in the care of people with cancer, administering treatment, educating patients and monitoring side effects.
• The primary care physician is a doctor who manages your general healthcare. Your oncologist may speak regularly with this doctor to discuss your ongoing treatment.

Chemotherapy and Side Effects

Chemotherapy affects normal healthy cells in addition to cancerous cells. It is the harm to the healthy cells that causes side effects. Some of the more common ones include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, mouth and throat problems, hair loss, infection, and changes in hands, feet, skin, and nails. However, side effects may vary from person to person.

It is important to report side effects to your healthcare team as soon as they occur. The sooner you let your healthcare team know what you are experiencing, the faster they can act to help manage your side effects. You might find it helpful to keep a diary of how you feel each day so you can refer to it when you meet with your team.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team About Side Effects

You should feel free to ask questions of your healthcare team, and to answer any that they may have for you. I find it helps when patients ask questions about their treatment. Here are some questions you might have before you begin:

• What side effects may occur with this treatment?
• How do these side effects compare with the side effects of other treatment options?
• When and for how long are they likely to last?
• What can I do to relieve the side effects?
• Whom should I call when I experience side effects?
• Are there side effects that I should report immediately?

Remember, regular contact with your healthcare team may help prevent interruptions in your treatment and ensure that it is as effective as possible.

Return to Advisor Perspectives.