Changes in the way you feel

When you're not feeling well, it's important to take care of your body and your mind. Try these practical tips for managing your physical symptoms, and guided imagery to help your mind soothe your body. If you are not able to manage your symptoms at home, talk with your doctor.

During cancer treatment, you need to eat keep up your strength and weight, in order to deal with the side effects and to help speed up your recovery.

Weight loss or gain. Cancer treatments can change your nutritional needs or the way you digest food, so it can be hard to eat well. You may experience some side effects from cancer treatment that makes it even more challenging to eat well. Learn more about eating well during cancer treatment.

Constipation and diarrhea. Taking your medications according to your doctor's directions and drinking enough water can help your digestion. Learn more ways to ease constipation and diarrhea.

Fatigue and sleep. You may not have the energy you usually have, so you may need more sleep than usual. Find out how to manage your energy level.

Fever, sweat, and hot flashes. Drink plenty of fluids, and wear loose, comfortable layers of clothing, so you can take a layer off if you're too warm. Relaxation and breathing techniques can help manage your symptoms, too. Make sure you call your doctor if you have a fever since it can be a sign of infection.

Pain. In addition to the drugs your doctor prescribes, massage, physical therapy, acupuncture, and heat and cold can help relieve your pain. Learn more ways to manage pain.

Changes in the way you look

When you don't feel good, it may be hard to keep up your appearance. But pampering yourself can help you feel better, so get a manicure or pedicure, or take a long, relaxing bath. When you're feeling up to it, light activities like walking can help brighten your day.

Here are some other strategies for dealing with changes in the way you look:

• Hair loss. You may choose to wear a wig, scarf, or hat to help you feel more comfortable. Find other ideas for coping with hair loss.
• Skin changes. If you have wounds or skin problems from surgery or radiation, ask your doctor about treatments to help you heal. Surgery can remove scars or rebuild a part of your body.

Changes in your body image

Your body image may change when you have cancer. It's normal to feel angry, frustrated, or disappointed, and you may experience sexual problems caused by the physical or emotional stresses caused by the cancer or treatment. It may help to discuss your feelings with a support group, or find ways to cope your emotions.

Side effects and smoking

Smoking — or allowing others to smoke around you — can increase the side effects of treatment and increase your risk of developing a second type of cancer. If you smoke, get help quitting.