Because chemotherapy reduces your body’s ability to ward off infections, it is important to take certain precautions to help reduce your risk of getting infected:
Avoid crowds, especially large ones with lots of young people
Avoid contact with people with contagious diseases, such as flu or chickenpox
Wash your hands frequently, before eating, and after using the bathroom
Try not to scratch or cut your skin. Don’t pick at any blemishes
Avoid getting bug bites
Do not use dental floss. Instead, use a soft toothbrush. Brush your teeth after every meal and at bedtime. Use a mouthwash of 1 tsp. of baking soda in a cup of water, or 1 tsp. of salt dissolved in 1 quart of water
Do not tear or cut your cuticles. If you get a manicure or pedicure, bring your own, sterilized set of nail tools to the salon. Be sure to tell the nail technician to be very gentle and not to cut any cuticle skin
Keep your skin well moisturized to avoid chaffing and dry spots
Shower, instead of bathe, at least once per day
If you cut or scrape your skin, wash it right away with soap and water
After each bowel movement, wash the rectal area gently and thoroughly. You may want to try using baby wipes
If you become constipated, be sure to consult with your doctor or nurse for advice
Obviously, you cannot retreat to a bubble and avoid all of life’s little glitches during this time. Just do your best to protect yourself, and be aware of your body’s temporary vulnerability.
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