Care through Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a critical and often lifesaving step in cancer treatment, but its effects can sometimes extend far beyond the hospital. Frequently people visit a hospital regularly to receive their treatment, returning home again later in the day. This could be weekly, monthly or anything in between. When returning home after a chemotherapy session, proper care is essential to manage side effects, promote swift recovery, and maintain overall well-being.

Chemotherapy may mean you feel tired and drained as your body uses energy to heal and recover.

You should be sure to balance your day with periods of rest in between any activity. Don’t push yourself too hard!

It will help you to surround yourself with home comforts, soft lighting, calming music and a favourite cozy blanket may help you relax.

You should aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. Try to keep your sleep times regular in order to help regulate your energy levels.

It is extremely important to have proper nutrition and hydration, both are vital to help your body to repair and rebuild. However, side effects like nausea or taste changes can make eating challenging.

You should drink plenty of water if possible. If water tastes metallic, try adding lemon or using flavoured options.

You may find it easier to focus on small, nutrient rich meals. Perhaps a bowl of warming chicken vegetable soup?

You should steer clear of foods that upset your stomach, like overly spicy or greasy dishes.

If nausea is a significant problem, speak to your cancer specialist nurse or doctor. They may be able to prescribe medications or give advice to help.

Chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. You should take sensible precautions to significantly reduce risks.

Good hand hygiene is extremely important. You might wish to avoid very crowded places and contact with people with colds or flu.

You should keep your home clean, paying attention to areas that are touched or used frequently, for example doorknobs, phones and remote controls.

Listen to your body, alert your nurse or doctor if you feel any signs of an infection

like high temperature. 

Although rest is very important, you might feel that gentle activity can really help lift your spirits, a gentle walk or spending some time in nature can bring great feelings of wellness. Some activities like meditation, journaling or deep breathing can help you feel centred and peaceful. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can promote calm and clarity.

Above all reach out for help. Sometimes we can be lucky enough to have a strong circle of support made of family or friends. However here at Silver Cloud Care we know that is not always the case.

That’s why we are ready to help, developing an individualised plan of care that focuses on you and your needs at this time. We can bring you to and from your chemotherapy appointments. While you are at your appointment we can do a tidy up at home, meaning that you could be coming home to a clean, tidy living room, fire lit, lights on. You can relax in your favourite armchair with a cup of tea, or we could make you some soup, or perhaps you just want to get into a freshly made bed.

We are ready to give you a virtual hug at this time, making sure we leave you warm and cosy with your needs taken care of, allowing you the time and space to just relax and recover. 

Returning home after chemotherapy is a critical time to prioritise your self-care and healing. If you feel like we could help support you at this time, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You’re not alone—we are here, ready to be your silver lining! 

CONTACT INFORMATION

Email : info@silvercloudcareni.co.uk

Telephone: 028 9252 8010