Managing the Side Effects of Chemotherapy Continued

Hair Loss

Hair loss affects many people undergoing cancer treatment. Depending on the chmotherapy drugs given,there may be a total loss of hair,thinning of hair or no loss at all.

This is one of the most difficult side effects to deal with emotionally.When you look in the mirror,it will not be the same person looking back.Do not be surprised if the loss causes feelings of devastation and depression. Prepare your family,co-workers and friends.

Fortunately,hair loss is almost always temporary.Some people noticed hair growing back between treatments.When your hair grows back,it may be different testure or color.

If the loss is very dramatic,you may want to cut your hair very short of shave your head. If you have small children,you may want to prepare them before cutting your hair or shaving your head.

Information is available on wigs,headcoverings and hair bonding. Those of you on chemotherapy protocals which generally cause hair loss will find this info in your information package you recieve.

If hair loss does occur,you may find that your scalp is tender.Body heat is lost quickly through your scalp. You may want to wear a headcovering day and night: scarfs,baseball caps,turbans.

Remember your hair will grow back!! I know this is one of the hardest things you will go through,but remember you are not the person your family and friends love just because of your hair.Its the person within you that endears you to people.Hold tight to that thought...you are a person loving and caring...you are not defined by your hair...but by your heart and soul!

In order to understand what our loved ones are dealing with,we must inform ourselves.
The info on the next few pages will help not only those with cancer understand how to cope...
but also those family members who find themselves wanting more info.