Going through breast cancer treatment is a journey that affects not only your health but also how you feel physically and emotionally. Each woman’s experience is different, but knowing what to expect and finding ways to manage side effects can make a big difference.
This guide walks through some of the changes you might face during treatment and offers practical ways to cope.
Fatigue
One of the most common side effects of breast cancer treatment is feeling extremely tired. This isn’t just regular tiredness, it’s a deep exhaustion that rest doesn’t always fix.
Why It Happens:
- Chemotherapy and radiation affect healthy cells as well as cancer cells, which can leave your body working harder to recover.
- Changes in hormone levels can contribute to feeling sluggish.
- Anxiety and disrupted sleep can also play a part.
Ways to Manage:
- Allow yourself to rest when needed, but also try light activities like short walks to boost energy.
- Maintain a balanced diet with enough protein, iron, and hydration to help with energy levels.
- Ask for help, whether it’s childcare, housework, or errands, letting others support you can ease the load.
Hair Loss
Losing hair is one of the changes people often associate with cancer treatment, and it can be an emotional experience. Not everyone loses their hair, but chemotherapy can cause thinning or complete hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.
Why It Happens:
- Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, which includes hair follicles.
- Not all treatments cause hair loss, so your doctor can let you know what to expect based on your specific treatment plan.
Ways to Manage:
- Some women choose to shave their heads before hair loss starts to feel more in control of the process.
- Headscarves, wigs, and hats can help if you feel self-conscious.
- Cold caps, which reduce blood flow to the scalp during chemotherapy, may help slow hair loss in some cases.
- Remember that hair usually starts growing back a few months after treatment ends, although texture and colour might change temporarily.
Hormonal Changes
Breast cancer treatments, especially those that affect oestrogen levels, can lead to sudden menopause or menopause-like symptoms. This can cause hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in libido.
Why It Happens:
- Some treatments, such as hormone therapy, block oestrogen to slow cancer growth.
- Surgery to remove the ovaries, if recommended, triggers menopause immediately.
Ways to Manage:
- Dress in layers and keep a fan nearby to help with hot flushes.
- Reduce spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can make symptoms worse.
- Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can help with mood swings and anxiety.
- Speak to your doctor about non-hormonal treatments that may help with symptom relief.
Changes in the Body
It’s common for women to notice changes in their weight during treatment. Some find that chemotherapy and steroids cause weight gain, while others experience loss of appetite and struggle to maintain their usual weight.
Ways to Manage:
- If you’re gaining weight, focus on balanced meals rather than cutting calories, as your body needs nutrients to recover.
- If you’re losing weight, try eating smaller meals more frequently, and include protein-rich snacks.
- Gentle movement, like walking or stretching, can help with metabolism and muscle strength.
Emotional Well-being
Cancer treatment affects not only the body but also the mind. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, from anxiety and frustration to sadness or even guilt.
Ways to Cope:
- Talk to someone, a friend, family member, or a counsellor.
- Join a support group where you can connect with women going through similar experiences.
- Try journaling, art, or mindfulness exercises to process emotions.
- Be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel low some days, and it’s okay to ask for help.
We’re Here to Support You
Breast cancer treatment is challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you have questions about side effects, need guidance on symptom management, or simply want to talk through your concerns, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here for you.
Book a consultation today to get personalised advice and support tailored to your needs. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to help you through every step of the journey.
