Summer is approaching, a time full of light, happiness and different activities with friends and family, vacation, the perfect time to relax and improve our emotional state. In addition, our eating habits, sleep schedules and downtime and routines often change.
For cancer patients and their families, these changes can create many concerns, especially if they are in the middle of treatment. Will I be able to sunbathe during chemo? Is it recommended? How and when should I do this? Can it affect my treatment? In this post, we cleared up questions about health issues such as diet and skincare during the summer season. We also have some tips to help you cope with this time of year and to enjoy it to the fullest.
Summer wellness tips
- It is best to not be directly exposed to air conditioning or drink very cold beverages, as these can lead to cramps or even infections that complicate treatment.
- Due to the photosensitivity that may be caused by treatments like chemotherapy, we recommended avoiding sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the ultraviolet radiation of the sun is most intense, or to use products with a very high SPF.
- In summer, it is important to increase your consumption of water and herbal teas. As a result of treatments, people with cancer often suffer from problems of dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes, which makes it necessary in the summer to increase the consumption of fluids, but make sure you steer clear of sugary drinks.
- Anemia is another of the most common side effects in cancer patients, so it is important to maintain a varied, balanced diet with olive oil, fish, vegetables, fruit, etc. Above all, this time of the year, it is important to eat more than five pieces of fruit and vegetables a day given your increased perspiration and to not go overboard with sugary drinks.
- During summer vacation, do not disrupt your sleep patterns, as this can cause imbalances and insomnia.
- During chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the recommended option for hair removal is to use razors. Make sure to shave very carefully. Take your time. This way, we avoid the use of hot or cold waxes that are more aggressive for the skin.
- Diarrhea is another of the most common side effects of cancer treatments. In summertime, this may put you at an even greater risk of dehydration, especially in older patients, so it’s important to see a specialist if you notice any of these signs.
Source: EFE Salud, Genesis Care
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