Though pediatric cancer treatments are more effective and successful than ever in history, they aren’t without side effects. Thankfully, cancer care has also shifted to prioritizing whole-child care. It isn’t just about eradicating cancer but also facilitating health for the mind and body alike. 

Thankfully, we have solutions today that can ease and sometimes erase the adverse effects of chemo and radiation therapies. All kids with cancer are on a difficult journey. As caregivers and their support systems, we must do our best to ease the challenges along the way.

Here are just a few of the solutions to common cancer treatment-related ailments.

What are the most common side effects of intensive cancer treatments?

• Fatigue
• Pain
• Gastrointestinal Issues (Nausea, Food Aversions, Vomiting, Etc.)
• Hair Loss
• Bleeding
• Weakened Immune System

There are, of course, other side effects as well. No child’s experience will be the same. However, if your child is wrestling with any of the adverse effects of their cancer treatment, be sure to consult their care team about the following solutions:

5 Helpful Remedies for Cancer Treatment Side Effects

#1 – Medication

Various medications can help mitigate specific side effects. For example, antiemetic drugs can help manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Pain medications may be prescribed to alleviate treatment-related pain. Additionally, remedies are available to address specific side effects like constipation, mouth sores, or allergic reactions.

That said, never take anything, prescription or over-the-counter, without first consulting your child’s care team.

#2 – Dietary Changes

Sometimes nausea and other GI issues can be addressed by adjusting your child’s diet. They may need to eat smaller, more frequent meals or have their food served at particular temperatures. A registered dietician or nutritionist can help you craft a plan for your child. Prioritize whole, nutritionally dense foods when possible. They help the body heal and function properly. If your child’s diet is limited, ask about ways to supplement necessary vitamins and minerals.

#3 – Supportive Therapies

Specific therapies, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy, can help children regain strength, maintain mobility, or improve communication skills during or after treatment. These therapies can enhance the overall well-being of pediatric cancer patients. If you have a specific concern, consult your child’s care team. They can point you in the right direction for appropriate supportive therapies. 

#4 – Attentive Hygiene

Because chemo and radiation therapies may impact the immune system, hygiene is essential to health and recovery. These children are more susceptible to illnesses and long, complicated recoveries – even from something as benign as the common cold. 

Stress the value of hygiene and preventative measures for your child and those who come in contact with them regularly. Wash hands, wear masks, and stay away if there’s any indication of illness. Keep you’re child’s spaces – their room, bathroom, and food prep areas – well-sanitized and clean. 

#5 – Rest and Exercise

Fatigue is the number one side-effect of cancer treatment. It can be debilitating, particularly for children accustomed to a high-energy and active lifestyle. Rest is the best solution, but side effects can prohibit quality rest! Craft a comfortable and relaxing home environment to facilitate sleep quality. Cool, quiet, dark rooms are best. Your child may need to adjust to new sleep positions – try a variety of pillow and bedding options to find what works best.

At the same time, encourage limited physical activity – whatever your child can handle and feel comfortable with. It can help maintain muscle mass and energy. Excess sleep can leave you feeling more fatigued, not less. 

Encourage your child to move around, even if it’s just a short walk or doing some stretches. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to cancer treatment or side effects. What’s important is that parents and caregivers listen to pediatric patients and their experiences. Take what they say seriously. Consult with their care team to find solutions. After all, side effects can be more debilitating than the cancer or treatment alone. 

Advocate for your child. They shouldn’t have to resign themselves to the painful challenges of cancer treatment. Pain and side-effect management must be tailored to the individual – and only you can speak up for your child. From the beginning to the end of their treatment and beyond, keep that conversation open. Ask them how they feel and if remedies are helping. Keep searching for solutions.

Together, we can discover solutions that lead to long, fulfilling, cancer-free lives for our kids!