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Managing cancer treatment side effects requires a comprehensive approach that follows established clinical guidelines while considering individual patient needs. Australian healthcare providers have access to world-class protocols and guidelines that, when combined with appropriate medical products and support, can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life during treatment.

In this guide, we'll explore the top recommendations from Australian oncology nurses, highlighting professional strategies for managing treatment side effects, navigating emotional challenges, and maintaining patient well-being through comprehensive, holistic care approaches.

Understanding Cancer Skin Care Cancer treatment can significantly affect the skin, making proper skin care essential. As patients undergo various treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery, the skin often reacts with a range of adverse effects. These can include dryness, sensitivity, rashes, and more severe conditions like radiation dermatitis. Understanding how to manage these effects is crucial not only for comfort but also for maintaining overall skin health and quality of life. Proper skin care during cancer treatment involves recognising the specific needs of the skin at different stages of therapy. For instance, chemotherapy can cause the skin to become extremely dry and flaky, while radiation therapy might lead to redness and peeling in the treated areas. These conditions require targeted approaches, such as using mild, non-irritating cleansers and rich moisturisers that can soothe and hydrate the skin without causing further irritation. Additionally, patients may experience increased skin sensitivity, making it essential to avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, and other potential irritants. Protective measures, like using sunscreen to guard against UV damage and wearing soft, breathable fabrics to reduce friction, can also play a significant role in skin care during treatment. Incorporating supportive products specifically designed for cancer patients can further enhance skin care routines. Products like specialised creams for radiation dermatitis or hydration-promoting solutions like enterade® can make a noticeable difference in managing skin health. By addressing these needs proactively, patients can alleviate discomfort and maintain a better quality of life throughout their treatment journey. Common Skin Issues During Cancer Treatment Patients undergoing cancer treatment often experience various skin problems, including: Dryness and Flaking: Common with chemotherapy, dryness can lead to itching and discomfort.Radiation Dermatitis: A side effect of radiation therapy, causing redness, peeling, and irritation.Increased Sensitivity: Treatments can make skin more sensitive to sunlight and everyday products.Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots or patches on the skin due to certain chemotherapy drugs. Radiation Dermatitis: Causes and Care Radiation dermatitis occurs when radiation therapy damages the outer layers of the skin. Symptoms can range from mild redness to severe peeling and open sores. Here are some care tips: Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid irritation. Moisturising: Apply rich, fragrance-free moisturisers to keep skin hydrated. Protective Clothing: Wear soft, loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction. Radiation Relief Creams: Specially formulated creams can help soothe and protect affected areas. Chemo Skin Effects and How to Manage Them Chemotherapy can cause various skin issues, including: Rashes: Some chemo drugs can cause itchy, red rashes.Dryness: Chemo can reduce oil production, leading to very dry skin.Nail Changes: Nails may become brittle or discoloured. Management Tips Hydration: Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skin products.Sun Protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect sensitive skin.Nail Care: Keep nails trimmed and avoid harsh nail products. Best Skin Care Products for Cancer Patients Choosing the right skin care products is crucial. Here are some recommendations: Gentle Cleansers: Look for mild, soap-free cleansers that won't strip the skin of natural oils.Rich Moisturisers: Use emollient-rich moisturisers to combat dryness and irritation.Radiation Relief Creams: Products specifically designed for radiation dermatitis can provide relief.Fragrance-Free Products: Avoid products with fragrances, as they can irritate sensitive skin.Enterade®: A specially formulated drink that helps manage the side effects of cancer treatment by promoting hydration and supporting digestive health. Tips for Better Skin Care During Treatment Here are some practical tips to maintain healthy skin during cancer treatment: Consistent Routine: Stick to a gentle skin care routine, even on days when you feel tired.Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip the skin of natural oils, opt for lukewarm water instead.Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.Use Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can help prevent skin dryness.Pat Dry: After bathing, pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it to avoid irritation.Wear Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect sensitive skin from harmful UV rays.  Role of Nutrition in Skin Health Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining skin health. Incorporate these foods into your diet: Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, they help protect and repair skin.Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds can improve skin elasticity.Hydration: Drinking enough water is essential for overall skin health.Enterade®: This drink can support overall health and hydration, particularly beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Emotional and Psychological Support Skin changes during cancer treatment can affect self-esteem and emotional well-being. Seeking support from counsellors or support groups can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Here are some tips: Counselling and Therapy: Professional counselling can help address emotional stress and provide coping strategies.Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding from others who are going through similar experiences.Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can help manage stress and improve emotional well-being.Engaging in Enjoyable Activities: Spending time on hobbies and activities that bring joy can help reduce feelings of fatigue and improve mood. Managing skin care during cancer treatment involves understanding common issues and using appropriate products and techniques. At Aurora Direct, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, supportive care products that make a difference in your journey. For more information about our products and personalised recommendations, visit Aurora Direct.

What is Cancer-Related Fatigue? Cancer-related fatigue is an overwhelming sense of exhaustion that affects cancer patients and survivors, beyond the typical tiredness experienced in daily life. It is persistent, often worsened by physical and mental activity, and does not improve with rest. This type of fatigue can severely impact a patient's ability to perform daily tasks, enjoy activities, and maintain a sense of well-being.   Causes of Cancer-Related Fatigue Several factors contribute to the development of cancer-related fatigue, including:   Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery can deplete energy levels and disrupt normal bodily functions.   Anaemia: A frequent side effect of cancer treatment, anaemia, reduces the number of red blood cells, leading to decreased oxygen transport and increased fatigue.   Emotional stress: The emotional burden of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and concerns about the future can significantly contribute to fatigue.   Nutritional deficiencies: Side effects from treatment, such as nausea and loss of appetite, can result in insufficient nutrition, which enhances fatigue.   Sleep disturbances: Pain, anxiety, and treatment schedules can disrupt normal sleep patterns, leading to persistent tiredness.   Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life Cancer-related fatigue manifests in various ways, including:   Physical symptoms: Persistent tiredness, muscle weakness, and decreased physical stamina.   Cognitive symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and impaired decision-making abilities.   Emotional symptoms: Increased irritability, mood swings, and feelings of hopelessness or depression.   The impact on daily life can be significant, affecting a patient’s ability to work, maintain social relationships, and engage in hobbies or physical activities. Understanding and addressing these symptoms is crucial for improving quality of life during and after cancer treatment.   Managing Energy Levels Managing energy levels requires a multifaceted approach tailored to individual needs. Here are some strategies:   Balanced diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps maintain energy levels. Small, frequent meals can be easier to manage and help maintain steady energy.   Regular exercise: Gentle exercises such as walking, stretching, or yoga can boost energy levels and improve overall well-being. Exercise also releases endorphins, which can help reduce feelings of fatigue.   Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices like meditation and deep breathing can reduce stress and improve energy levels.   Prioritise activities: Focus on essential tasks and delegate or postpone non-essential activities. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can also help conserve energy.   Supportive Care Products At Aurora Direct, we offer a range of supportive care products designed to help manage cancer-related fatigue and enhance the quality of life during treatment. Here are some of our top recommendations:   Chemo Mouthpiece™: This innovative product helps soothe and protect the mouth during chemotherapy, reducing discomfort and promoting better nutrition intake.   Comfortable clothing: Soft, loose-fitting clothing can help reduce discomfort and make rest periods more effective.   Nutritional supplements: Products like protein shakes and meal replacement bars can help ensure adequate nutrition when appetite is low.   One highly recommended product is enterade®, a specially formulated drink that helps manage the side effects of cancer treatment by promoting hydration and supporting digestive health.   Aromatherapy: Essential oils such as lavender and chamomile can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.   Tips for Better Sleep During Chemotherapy Quality sleep is crucial for managing cancer-related fatigue. Here are some tips to help you sleep better during chemotherapy:   Establish a routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your body’s internal clock.   Create a restful environment: Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using blackout curtains or a white noise machine.   Limit screen time: Avoid screens (TV, phone, computer) at least an hour before bedtime as the blue light can interfere with sleep.   Relaxation techniques: Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading, listening to soft music, or taking a warm bath.   Comfortable bedding: Investing in a good-quality mattress and pillows can make a significant difference in sleep quality.   Role of Nutrition in Managing Fatigue Nutrition plays a critical role in managing cancer-related fatigue. Here are some dietary tips to help fight fatigue:   Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water and other healthy fluids such as enterade®. Dehydration can worsen fatigue.   Balanced meals: Incorporate a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your diet to ensure you get the necessary vitamins and minerals.   Small, frequent meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently can help maintain energy levels and prevent blood sugar dips.   Avoiding heavy meals: Large, heavy meals can cause sluggishness and exacerbate fatigue. Opt for lighter meals that are easier to digest.   Cancer-related fatigue is a challenging side effect, but with the right strategies and supportive care products, it can be managed effectively. At Aurora Direct, we are committed to providing products and resources that help improve the quality of life for those undergoing cancer treatment.   For more information about our products and how they can help you or your loved ones, visit the Aurora Direct website and explore our extensive range of supportive care solutions.  

Cancer is a disease that affects not only the patient, but also their loved ones and it can be a difficult journey, both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, there are many resources and support available to help cancer patients and their families cope with the challenges that come with this diagnosis.   Support Groups One of the best resources for cancer patients and their families is support groups. Support groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, fears and concerns with others who are going through the same thing. It can be incredibly helpful to connect with people who understand what you are going through and can offer encouragement and support. There are many types of support groups available, including those specifically for patients, caregivers and family members. Some support groups meet in person, while others are online. Many hospitals and cancer centres offer support groups too, so be sure to ask your healthcare provider for information on those located in your area.   Counselling Services A cancer diagnosis is a very stressful and emotional experience for both patients and their families. Knowing that there are various counselling services available is a comfort and can provide emotional support while helping individuals cope with the challenges of cancer. Counsellors are qualified to help patients and their families deal with anxiety, depression and other emotional issues that may arise during the cancer journey. As with support groups, hospitals and cancer centres also offer counselling services, and some health insurance plans may cover the cost. If you are unable to access counselling services through your healthcare provider, there are many online counselling services available such as the Cancer Council, Redkite and Canteen Connect.   Financial Assistance Programs Cancer treatments can add financial pressures to individuals and there families and many families struggle to manage the financial burdens during their treatment. Fortunately, there are many financial assistance programs available to help cancer patients and their families. These programs can aid with medical bills, transportation costs and other expenses related to cancer treatment. Many hospitals and cancer centres have social workers who can provide information on financial assistance programs. There are also many non-profit organisations that provide financial assistance to cancer patients and their families.   Supportive Care products Using supportive care products to help manage the side effects of cancer treatments can support cancer patients and assist, such as restoring gut health with enterade® Advanced Oncology Formula, Ice Cold Gloves and Socks to help manage potential issues of peripheral neuropathy,  Follact Restore Healthy Hair Care for scalp and hair treatment and EZbra® for post-surgical wound care.  Explore all your options and talk to your healthcare professional to ensure this benefits your plan.   Online Resources In addition to local resources, there are many online resources available to cancer patients and their families. These resources can provide information on cancer treatment, coping strategies and support groups. Some popular online resources include: Cancer Council Online Community (https://onlinecommunity.cancercouncil.com.au/ ) – The Cancer Council’s website provides information on cancer treatment, support groups and financial assistance programs. Healthdirect (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/caring-for-someone-with-cancer ) – Health direct provides information on counselling services, support groups and educational resources for cancer patients and their families. Cancer Australia (https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/impacted-cancer/cancer-support-organisations ) – Cancer Australia is a government website that provides information on cancer treatment, survivorship, and support services. Cancer is a difficult journey, but there are many resources and support available to help patients and their families cope with the challenges that come with this diagnosis. Aurora Direct can also help patients be prepared to manage some of the side effects of cancer treatments and help patients take control and feel stronger with specialised products, gifting and books. If you or a loved one is facing cancer, don't hesitate to reach out for help. There is no need to face this journey alone.   Visit www.auroradirect.com.au

It is a common fact that chemotherapy comes with many adverse side effects including fatigue, hair loss, mouth sores, mood swings and loss of libido. Patients have also experienced skin and nail problems, easy bruising and bleeding, fertility issues and having trouble concentrating or remembering things. There can also be nerve and muscle effects and even hearing changes, along with loss of appetite, nausea, and bowel issues such as constipation or diarrhoea. Gastrointestinal issues can have a direct bearing on our overall health and feeling of wellbeing while undergoing chemotherapy and having a better understanding and knowing how to manage these symptoms, can go a long way to help you get through your treatment.  The good news is not every person with cancer gets every side effect, and some people get few! The severity of side effects and how bad they are, can vary greatly from person to person, but let’s look at the gastrointestinal side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.    Does chemotherapy affect the stomach?   It can cause nausea and vomiting. Chemotherapy drugs are administered in doses. These can be large or small, depending on the requirements of the patient. As a result, these drugs can cause dehydration and malnourishment, making a person feel sick and potentially intensifying other chemo-related side effects.. Whether you have these side effects, and how often, depends on the specific drugs and dose. There are medications that are given before and after each dose of chemotherapy that can help prevent these symptoms, however, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery may also affect how a person digests food and even cause stomach swelling in some instances. Surgery or radiation therapy to the abdominal area can cause tissue scarring, long-term pain, and intestinal problems. Some cancer patients may have chronic diarrhoea that reduces the body's ability to absorb nutrients, which can manifest other symptoms, as our bodies fight for survival.     Why is diarrhoea a common side effect of chemotherapy?   Some strategies that may help prevent chemo-induced diarrhoea include:  Making dietary modifications: A person may wish to try lowering their intake of fat, sugar, and processed foods. Also, they should aim to choose bland foods if they are not feeling well. Taking probiotics: Taking probiotics may help reduce the risk of developing diarrhoea. Probiotics may also be helpful after recent antibiotic treatment for an infection. Changing medication: People using stool softeners, laxatives, and other medications that can induce diarrhoea should talk with a doctor about stopping these during chemo treatment. Drinking clear liquids: Drinking water and other clear fluids, such as electrolyte drinks, may prevent dehydration, which is a potentially serious diarrhoea complication. Taking medications: Using certain medications can help reduce the risk of diarrhoea, especially in people undergoing chemo who have previously had severe diarrhoea.    Gastrointestinal pain and discomfort can be debilitating while undergoing chemotherapy treatment, which is why we formulated Enterade®, an advanced oncology formula ‘medical food’ in a refreshing orange flavour, which may help with the symptoms and side effects of chemotherapy such as diarrhoea, dehydration, and limited absorption of nutrition. Enterade’s formula uses plant-based amino acids to rebuild the damage in healthy cells that line your intestines, that are affected when undergoing treatment for cancer.    Enterade® will be your best friend during chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as it keeps you more hydrated than water, and helps manage side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, exhaustion, undesirable weight loss, and dehydration. It is a clinically proven, plant-based medical food, using Hydro Active Technology.   Aurora Direct recommends that patients should drink Enterade® twice daily (on an empty stomach) 30 minutes before meals for optimal absorption of the amino acids, for a minimum of 7 days. Once symptoms subside, patients can drink one bottle a day or every other day, depending on their symptoms.  Visit www.auroradirect.com.au. 

Since the early 1900s and for as long as patients have been undergoing chemotherapy, the side effects of this treatment for cancer has been a major concern over the years. While cancer cells are often fast-growing, so are the cells in hair follicles, bone marrow and the digestive system. Chemotherapy targets and kills these fast-growing cells, which in turn cause side effects including hair loss, nausea and vomiting being the most common, along with other more debilitating outcomes. Chemotherapy-induced nausea is a common side effect and is caused by the drugs used in chemotherapy, which can damage the cells in the body, including the cells in the stomach and intestines. This in turn can lead to inflammation, causing nausea and vomiting. Oncology nurses play a crucial role in helping patients manage their nausea during chemotherapy treatment, by offering various therapeutic alternatives to minimise the symptoms. Nausea is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by a variety of factors, including the type and dose of chemotherapy drugs, the patient's individual sensitivity to the drugs, and the patient's overall health. Some chemotherapy drugs are more likely to cause nausea than others, and certain patients may be more susceptible to the side effects. One of the most effective ways to relieve chemotherapy-induced nausea is to use anti-nausea medications, also known as antiemetics. These medications work by blocking the action of the chemicals in the brain that cause nausea and vomiting. Oncology nurses who are responsible for administering these medications and ensuring that they are taken correctly,  also monitor the patient's response to the medication and adjust the dosage accordingly. Another way to relieve chemotherapy-induced nausea is to use complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, aromatherapy; and to consume fresh ginger. Working with patients to develop an individualised treatment plan that incorporates these therapies in addition to their traditional treatment, is often an effective solution. Paying careful attention to your diet during chemotherapy is key and eating small, frequent meals while avoiding foods that are high in fat or spices, can help to significantly reduce nausea. Drinking clear fluids such as water, broths and eating ice chips, can also help to keep you hydrated and prevent nausea. enterade® is the first plant-based medical food that is clinically proven to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects of chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation treatment. It works with the body’s natural healing systems, using a unique blend of plant based amino acids, to not only repair the damage to those good cells caused by chemotherapy and radiation, but to help protect against any additional damage. Patients using enterade® saw a 91% improvement in nausea, 88% improvement in dehydration and 74% improvement in diarrhoea.* Constant vomiting can take its toll. It's important to pay attention to your body's needs during chemotherapy and if at any point you start to feel tired or weak, it's important to rest and conserve your energy. If you're feeling anxious or stressed, find ways to relax and reduce stress using techniques such as deep breathing and visualisation. Talk to your medical team today to find the most effective treatment plan for your individual needs when it comes to helping manage your symptoms. At Aurora Direct, we have a range of supportive care products to help you on your journey, including enterade® for gut health, Follact Restore Healthy Hair for hair growth and our Ice Cold range for peripheral neuropathy.   With the right treatment plan, you can manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life during and after chemotherapy.   *Luque L, Cheuvront SN, Mantz C, Finkelstein SE (2020) Alleviation of Cancer Therapy-Induced Gastrointestinal Toxicity using an Amino Acid Medical Food. Food Nutr J 5: 216. DOI: 10.29011/2575-7091.100116

Cancer is a life-altering disease that affects not only the person diagnosed but also their loved ones. Family and friends play a crucial role in providing support and care for a loved one with cancer. Let’s explore some ways you can support a family member or friend after they have been diagnosed with cancer, drawing on tips from oncologists and nurses.   The first and most important thing you can do is to be there for your loved one. This means simply being present and available to listen, talk, and provide emotional support. Showing up and being there, whether it be in person or through phone calls, text messages, or video chats, can make a huge difference. According to an oncologist, the emotional support of loved ones is crucial for the patient's mental well-being and can greatly improve the outcome of treatment.   Another way to support a loved one with cancer is to help them navigate the healthcare system. Cancer treatment can be complex and confusing, and it is common for patients and their families to feel overwhelmed. Offer to help your loved one schedule appointments, fill out paperwork, and understand the treatment options available to them. A nurse recommends keeping a journal or calendar to keep track of appointments, medications, and other important information to make the process less overwhelming.   Another way to support a loved one with cancer is to help them maintain their daily routine. Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally draining, and it is important for patients to maintain a sense of normalcy. Offer to help with household chores, run errands, or even just spend time with them doing something they enjoy. According to an oncologist, maintaining a sense of normalcy can greatly improve the patient's quality of life during treatment.   It is also important to be mindful of the emotional and psychological toll that cancer can take on a person. Cancer patients may experience a wide range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and depression. Be there to listen and provide support, but also know when to seek out professional help if necessary. Encouraging your loved one to talk to a therapist or counsellor, especially if they are experiencing severe emotional distress can also be helpful.   Educate yourself about the disease and treatment options. This will not only help you understand what your loved one is going through but also make you more equipped to provide them with accurate information, resources, and support. I found these two websites very informative; Cancer Council  and Cancer Australia.   Cancer can be financially draining, so it's a good idea to offer help in that regard if you can. From offering to pay for treatment, to helping with bills and groceries, or even finding alternative healthcare support or rebates.   It is a heavy load to carry so remember that you also need to take care of yourself. Supporting a loved one with cancer can be emotionally and physically taxing, Self care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout is essential.   So, although your role in supporting your loved one with cancer is a challenging one, it is a rewarding one too.   View Aurora Direct’s Supportive care range, the products provide nutritional support, gut health, wound care and hair care which can improve the recently diagnosed, quality of life. Visit www.auroradirect.com.au