Cancer and the Summer Months

 

Brought to you by an ASCO website:  www.plwc.org

 

Summertime brings sun, heat, and outdoor activities, but it can also present challenging health and lifestyle issues for people living with cancer. That's why it's important to consider the following precautions during the summer months:

 

Heat and dehydration

Some side effects of cancer treatment, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea, may cause dehydration and possibly heat exhaustion. Signs of dehydration include:

· Dry mouth; thirst

· Fatigue and weakness

· Weak or cramped muscles

· Dizziness, headaches, or feeling forgetful or confused

· Fever

· Very dark urine or less frequent urination

· Swollen, cracked, or dried tongue

· Sunken eyes that don't tear naturally

· Dry skin, skin that "tents" when pinched

 

Ways to prevent dehydration

· Drink before becoming thirsty. Try to drink at least six to 10 glasses of water every day, and drink even more when outside in the heat.

· Drink iced fluids, like ice water, juices, Gatorade®, or Popsicles®, to quench thirst and cool down.

· Use ice chips for relief from dry mouth.

· Eat vegetables and fruits with a high fluid content with meals and as snacks.

· Avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine (such as coffee, tea, and soda).

 

Hot flashes

Hot flashes may be a side effect of hormone therapy for people with cancer and can be triggered by hot weather. The following are some suggestions to cool down and manage hot flashes:

· Wear breathable fabrics, such as cotton, linen, and rayon, instead of synthetics.

· Keep iced beverages on hand throughout the day and night.

· Lower the thermostat, if possible. Turn on a ceiling fan or use a hand-held, battery-operated fan

· Take a cool shower before bed to manage hot flashes during hot nights. Wear lightweight PJs.

· If the doctor says it's okay to exercise, try swimming as the water will keep your temperature down.

· Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine, as they may also trigger hot flashes.