How to Lessen the Side Effects of Hyperthermia

Since hyperthermia involves exposing the body to high heat in order to weaken cancer cells, it's natural that there are some side effects associated with the treatment. The most common side effects are believed to be related to circulation problems after therapy. This means you may be able to prevent or alleviate them through simple exercise and a proper diet. However, since hyperthermia is used primarily to treat advanced and metastasized cancers and recurring tumors, you may be unable to perform exercise on a regular basis. In this case, speak with your doctor about natural supplements or foods that can boost the circulation in your body to lessen the side effects of treatment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Try adding light exercise to your daily routine before your hyperthermia treatment. It may increase your circulation, which is key for alleviating the side effects of treatment.
2. Eat properly-balanced meals both before and after treatment. The added nutrition may boost your immune system and combat side effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
3. Take aspirin before your treatment to thin your blood to help prevent blood clots. Patients who are unable to take aspirin may be able to take a prescribed alternative.
4. Have plenty of ice packs on hand to reduce swelling at the site of treatment. Patients who undergo whole body hyperthermia may be able to lessen swelling by wrapping their bodies with chilled towels for several minutes.
5. Ask your doctor about prescription medications to lessen the side effects of hyperthermia. Your doctor may be able to suggest pain killers, anti-inflammatory drugs or stomach relaxers to help you get through the first few days after treatment.
6. Ask your doctor about follow-up treatments that may be needed after hyperthermia. The procedure is often used in conjunction with other cancer therapies. Being informed about your entire treatment plan can make it easier to cope with the side effects of a particular component.

Tips & Warnings

• If you experience severe side effects as a result of your treatment, it is your right to have emergency services and screening without prior authorization.
• Ask your doctor to perform tests on your heart prior to undergoing hyperthermia. Proper circulation may be able to lessen the side effects of treatment.
• The side effects of cancer therapies can often heighten feelings of fear, confusion and helplessness. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and he or she may be able to prescribe helpful medications or refer you to an area support group to help you sort through your feelings.
• Should you begin to experience heart palpitations after your hyperthermia treatment, contact your doctor immediately. This may be indicative of heart damage and should be checked right away.

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