Cancer Care

I apologize for my absence.  I realized after caring for a client with cancer recently, that I have covered a lot of dimentia and neurological care issues, but there has been little coverage on my part regarding cancer care.  In my personal life, I have cared for my son through 3 different chemotherapy treatments, one being a drug trial in which intense documentation was required.  We will begin a new chemo journey on the 27th of this month, as he will begin a new drug trial out of Indianapolis for his tumor treatment.  So, I have professional and family caregiver experience for chemotherapy.

First and foremost, I will address some ideas for nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and the difficulties that you may be facing when this occurs.  During this time, it is important that you not push your loved one beyond what they are capable of.  So, you may need to enlist the help of outside caregivers, either family, friends, or professionally, so that you can get out and do things you need to do without worry about your loved ones needs being met.  When you do have to get out with your loved one, bring a bag with a change of clothes, trash bags for vomiting and soiled clothes, wipes for diarrhea, medications, +Gatorade  or other drink with potassium and electrolyte replacement, saltines, sanitizer, disposable medical gloves, comfort items, and a light blanket.  I know this sounds like a lot, but it is important to just keep such a bag packed and ready to carry any time your loved one is with you.  It will make all the difference for you and your loved one.  You will never regret having it.  When your loved one goes out and the inevitable accident occurs, it will be very hard for him or her and he/she may react with anger and/or shame.  You should do everything in your power to assure him or her that there is nothing to be ashamed of and it is important to validate the anger, even if it is misdirected at you.  Cancer patients have a right to be angry at this thing that is invading their bodies and making them have to fight for their lives and their dignity.  They will feel bad enough that someone is having to help clean them up, so they don't need to feel bad for being mad about it.

It is important to push fluids and foods high in potassium and electrolytes when there is a side effect of vomiting and diarrhea. Gatorade, fortified waters, and other such sports drinks are great for hydration needs.  Sweet potatoes are higher in potassium than bananas, so both of those foods are great!  It is also a good idea to sprinkle cinnamon on either of them (if your loved one likes cinnamon), as it helps with nausea.  Teas are great for helping with hydration and nausea.  Cinnamon, ginger, lemon zest, and mint are all great for nausea.  Ice chips are great for hydration, as are popsicles and jello.