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The treatments to destroy cancer cells may harm healthy cells at the same time. That is why treatments may cause side effects. These may affect each person differently. Some people have none, while others may have many. Some side effects may change over time, while others stay the same. Some may be temporary, while others may be permanent.
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Treating your cancer to get the best results is important. But your quality of life also matters. Let your doctor and nurse know if you are experiencing any side effects or discomfort. Make sure you tell your doctor or nurse how these problems affect your day-to-day life. Your healthcare team is there to help you manage your symptoms as well as to treat your cancer.
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Dealing with your feelings is often easier as you learn more about your disease and get support from others. Doctors, nurses, and other members of your healthcare team can answer your questions. Talking with friends and family or others who have had cancer can help. Or meet with a social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist, or member of the clergy. Many people with cancer attend support groups. There they share what they have learned about cancer and its treatments. Here are some options for finding support.
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You will likely have physical concerns since your cancer may cause symptoms and your treatment may cause side effects. The side effects depend on your treatment. In this section, you will learn more about how to respond to some of the most common side effects and symptoms from bile duct cancer.
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Having side effects of radiation therapy does not mean that your cancer is getting worse or that therapy isn't working.
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Radiation therapy can help you in your fight against cancer. To feel better, get plenty of rest, exercise, and eat well. This will give your body the extra strength it needs right now. Also, look to family and friends for support and comfort.
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TIP: Ask a family member or friend to give you some help applying lotion in hard-to-reach spots.
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Constipation (difficulty passing stool) is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Constipation can be caused by the medications you are taking. It can also occur if you're not getting enough exercise and nourishment. Fluids are important in managing constipation.
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Diarrhea (loose stools) is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Diarrhea results when treatment affects the normal cells lining the intestine. To help limit this problem, try the tips on this handout.
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Fatigue is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It can be caused by worry, lack of sleep, and poor appetite. Fatigue can also be a sign of anemia (a shortage of red blood cells). This could require medical treatment. The tips below can help you feel better.
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Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It occurs because these treatments affect normal cells as well as cancer cells. Not all types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy cause hair loss, but if it does happen, these tips can help.
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Nausea or vomiting lasts for 24 hours or more You have trouble keeping fluids down
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Now that you are facing treatment for cancer, you may have concerns that you want to share. If you do want to talk, you may not know how to start. These ideas may help.
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Chemotherapy can make your body less able to fight off infection. This happens because treatment reduces the number of white blood cells (infection fighters) in your body. To help prevent infections, try the tips on this handout.
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