7 Ways to Avoid Post-Chemotherapy Infections

Chemotherapy is a treatment which is used to kill cancerous cells but it also often tends to kill some of the neighboring healthy cells of the body. What this procedure does is that it reduces the healthy qualities of the immune system, thereby making it less effective against bodily infections. This also leads the patients to more vulnerable to infections. These post-chemotherapy infections are difficult to treat but by following the given tips and ways, you can easily avoid these infections:

avoid post-chemotherapy infections1. Washing Hands Frequently

One of the best ways to avoid post chemotherapy infection is to wash your hands frequently. Make sure you wash your hands before and after eating and also after coming from the bathroom. Wash hands after touching animals and children as well. Doctors often recommend washing of hands for about 20 seconds using warm water as well soap.

2. Eating a Healthy and Balanced Diet

Another good way to avoid such infections is to eat a healthy and balanced diet. Taking enough protein and paying attention to vitamins and minerals is also extremely important.

3. Be Careful about Food Safety Rules

Handling of food carefully is also something that you must pay attention to. Foods must be washed and cooked and should be handled with clean hands. Moreover, special care must be taken while cooking poultry items and meat.

4. Take Care of Teeth and Gums

Brushing your teeth after every meal and cleaning of gums is also highly important to avoid the post-chemotherapy infections. Floss your mouth gently and consult your doctor about the manner of flossing.

5. Cultivate Healthy Skin

Keeping your skin well moisturized and hydrated at all times is a tip to follow to avoid any kinds of infections after your chemotherapy treatment. If skin is left dry and cracked, then it is more susceptible to infections.

6. Stay away from Sick People

It is important to stay away from anyone who is sick or ill. You do not want to catch any of the infections. Avoid people with measles, chickenpox and other illnesses that are communicable.

7. Avoid Accidents and Injuries

If you experience an injury or accident after chemotherapy, then it could lead to an open wound which might cause infection. So avoid doing anything which might put you at the risk of an injury of accident. Avoid sharp objects, avoid driving and do not try anything risky.

Photo Credit By: laura-bond.com