Need help now?Pointers
There is nothing like hearing practical advice from carers who have been there, done that. This page would really benefit from being created by you; the people who know, and have developed tried and tested ways of caring and overcoming difficulties with practical solutions.Here are some tips for YOU - the carer:
1. Being a carer is a job. It won't always be one which you have chosen and respite is your earned right. Take it. Often.
2. Don't delay in asking for help. If you don't ask for it, you will run yourself into the ground.
3. People want to know how they can help. Be specific. Suggest practical things that they can do. This helps them and then everyone is happy.
4. Take time to learn about the condition of the person you are caring for.
5. There is a difference between caring and doing. Be open to new ideas which may help the person you are caring for have more independence.
6. Trust your instincts. Most of the time they will lead you in the right direction.
7. Don't feel resentful about the freedom you have lost; focus on what you are gaining.
8. Seek support.
Hair care
Let’s start with hair. Hair will fall out during radiation and chemotherapy. It will begin to fall out in clumps about two to three weeks in with radiation. Here are five easy tips (adapted from www.associatedcontent.com)Tip 1: Before radiation or chemo therapy treatment begins, have your hair cut short. If it is only partially going to fall out then don’t have it cut really short – a bit of length will cover the bald patch. As the hair falls out, the shorter length will help to avoid that patchy look. Don’t shave the head since razors can burn or nick that tender skin which can lead to an infection.
Tip 2: While the hair is falling out, the scalp and remaining hair should be treated as gently as possible. Use a softer brush and avoid hair clips, rubber bands, hair bands etc. Wearing a turban at night can also slow down the hair loss process
Tip 3: Shampooing the hair should also be kept to a minimum. Gentle shampoos such as baby shampoos are recommended for cleaning. Shampoos that dry the scalp, or shampoos and conditioners that have a strong scent should be avoided since they can irritate the skin. And smell changes during treatment; strong scents can make you feel sick.
Tip 4: Hair dryers, straightening irons etc can dry and irritate the skin. The best practice is to pat the head gently with a towel and let the hair dry naturally.
Tip 5: When going outdoors, cancer patients who have experienced hair loss should apply a high factor sunscreen to the scalp and wear a cap, scarf, or hat to prevent sunburn.
