Most patients may experience a series of side effects when receiving chemotherapy, in addition to common gastrointestinal adverse reactions, hair loss, bone marrow suppression, etc., there is also a condition - hand-foot syndrome.
1. What is "hand-foot syndrome"?
Hand-foot syndrome, also known as palmoplantar erythema, is mainly manifested by redness, swelling, pain, numbness and other symptoms of the palms and soles. This condition usually appears 2 days to 3 weeks after the chemotherapy drug is used, and can appear as late as 10 months after the drug is used. Although the course of the disease is mostly self-limited, it can also bring some discomfort to the patient.
2. Suggestions for daily care.
Try to avoid hand and foot friction and contact with hot objects to reduce irritation.
Wear loose shoes and socks to avoid friction and pressure on your hands and feet. Choose materials with good breathability, such as cotton, silk, etc.
Avoid strenuous exercise and physical exertion to reduce additional stress on the hands and feet.
Avoid direct sun exposure and wear long clothes and pants and apply sunscreen or a parasol when you go out.
Keep the area clean to prevent infection. Do not scratch the part** or squeeze the blister, if there is any damage, you should seek medical attention in time.
3. Dietary conditioning.
Eat more foods that contain B vitamins, such as oats, peanuts, soybeans, etc., which are helpful in protecting the nervous system.
Eat a balanced diet with a variety of foods. The staple food is mainly cereals, and at the same time, fish, poultry, meat, eggs and other foods are often eaten to supplement the nutrients needed by the body.
Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as beans and dairy products, to replenish the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
The diet is mainly light and highly nutritious food, easy to digest food, and small and frequent meals every day.
Avoid spicy, irritating foods and hormone-containing foods, and avoid smoking and alcohol.
Although hand-foot syndrome after chemotherapy will cause some distress to patients, it can effectively alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life through reasonable daily care, dietary conditioning and appropriate exercise.