Cancer treatment often comes with a wide range of physical and emotional side effects. From fatigue and nausea to hair loss and dropped weight, you may not feel like yourself.
Yet maintaining a positive self-image and a sense of normalcy about your appearance can be important to healing and wellbeing.
“Patients want to be seen and visualized as a normal person, not a victim of their disease,” said Maureen Staunton, MBA, BS, RN, RT(R)(M), Endeavor Health Cancer Institute’s Director of Cancer Services at Northwest Community Hospital. “We embrace that notion as we take care of them and offer as many resources as we can to support them.”
Managing hair loss
From external organizations — like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the Look Good Feel Better Foundation — that offer programs throughout the region, to Northwest Community Hospital’s onsite free wig boutique, a full range of support services are as vital as the excellent clinical care offered to patients.
Trained wig-fitters can help you select from a variety of styles and offer a salon-like experience, all at no cost.
“Finding a wig that resembles what their hair looked like gives patients a feeling of normalcy. They do not want to stand out and have people see a woman who is bald and wonder if they have cancer. This service helps preserve their dignity as they go through their treatment,” said Endeavor Health oncology social worker Kim Jensen, LCSW- OSW-C, who is based at Northwest Community Hospital.
Scalp cooling, also known as cold capping, is an option for some patients trying to minimize hair loss during chemotherapy. Cold caps lower the temperature of the scalp, temporarily decreasing blood flow to that area and reducing the amount of chemotherapy drugs that reach hair follicle cells.
Cold capping does not completely eliminate hair loss and works better for certain drug regimens than others. On average, women who use cold capping see a 60-70% decrease in hair loss.
Managing chemo rash
Commonly called “chemo rash,” skin changes are one of the most common side effects of a variety of cancer treatments. The rash typically develops on the face, scalp, neck, palms, soles of the feet, back or chest, but can show up anywhere on the body.
Learn about timing, and other key tips to manage chemo rash.
Sense of community matters
Exercise and specially designed fitness classes are also important resources for cancer patients working to maintain a sense of normalcy and support through shared experiences.
Local cancer wellness centers, such as Imerman Angels and Lemons of Love, provide a wide variety of free programs — from counseling, cooking and exercise classes, to offerings with a self-care focus.
“Among the biggest benefits of these resources is the sense of community. They help patients know they are not alone in what they are going through,” said Endeavor Health oncology social worker Brandi Northrup MSW, LCSW, who is based at Edward Hospital Cancer Centers.
“Cancer can be very isolating, and local cancer resource centers are a great place to start. We see how patients benefit by being surrounded by others who understand, care and support.”
Getting comfortable with your new appearance
Northrup and colleagues help patients tackle self-image challenges and find creative ways to refresh wardrobes when unexpected weight loss has left them with clothes that no longer fit well.
The community Goodwill can be a place to find some new things, said Northrup. “Sometimes just finding a few new pieces can provide a good lift,” said Northrup.
“This is important for both men and women who are adjusting to their new appearance and uncomfortable with people commenting on their look,” she added.
It can be difficult to adjust to changes in your appearance during cancer treatment, but maintaining a positive self-image is crucial for overall wellbeing. Remember that many side effects are temporary. Focus on your inner strength and celebrate both who you are and the healing process itself.
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