Another major issue that patients deal with on a consistent basis during treatment is the side effects of the various remedies. Radiation therapy can cause hair loss and digestive problems. Chemotherapy sessions can leave a patient feeling lethargic and depressed. Prescription medications can cause mood fluctuations and disruptions in sleep patterns. Some other side effects that patients could encounter include:
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Constipation
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Diarrhea
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Fatigue
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Incontinence
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Low White Blood Cell Count/Weakened Immune System
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Mouth Sores
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Nail and Skin Discoloration
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Nausea
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Nerve Damage
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Sexual Inability
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Shortness of Breath
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Vomiting
In fact, many patients may fear the treatment side effects more than the damage done by the disease itself. Such fears may make patients hesitant to accept traditional treatment methods. Doctors often prescribe additional medications for the purpose of managing these effects (e.g. opioids for pain, antidepressants for mood swings, antibiotics for infection)