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How can I help myself during treatment?

You can help yourself by doing these things:

  • Keep to a healthy diet and try to eat enough food, even if you don’t feel hungry. It may be better to eat little and often. If you’re having problems, your radiographer or a dietician may be able to help. You may also find it useful to read our section on eating problems.

     
  • Don’t smoke, or at least try to cut down. Smoking can make your side-effects much worse.

     
  • Get plenty of rest. Your treatment may make you tired, so you need to take it easy!

     
  • Follow all the advice and instructions your radiographers give you. For example, by looking after your skin during treatment, you can help keep skin problems to a minimum.

     
  • Make sure you don’t miss your appointments.

     
  • Use a reliable contraceptive during your course of radiotherapy. (This is important before and after chemotherapy, too.)

     
  • When you come for your treatment sessions, tell your radiographers and doctors how you are feeling. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice if you need it.

 

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