Dehydration caused by chemotherapy

What is chemotherapy, what side effects does it cause, and how can deep hydration help patients overcome these challenges?

What is chemotherapy?

 

Chemotherapy is part of the therapeutic arsenal used to combat cancer. Unlike targeted therapy, it is a systemic treatment , meaning it does not target a specific area of ​​the body but treats the body as a whole. Here, we use drugs that eliminate cancer cells by destroying them or preventing their multiplication. Examples of drug classes used include alkylating agents, antimetabolites, and antimitotics. Chemotherapy is administered in cycles, consisting of a treatment period followed by a rest period, which allows time for healthy cells to recover.

Unfortunately, its effectiveness comes at the cost of significant side effects. Indeed, the cancer cells targeted by chemotherapy are highly actively dividing cells. Also, other rapidly dividing cells, such as those in hair follicles or the lining of the digestive system, may also be targeted by the drugs. This explains why some individuals experience hair loss during treatment, or even significant digestive problems.

But what role does hydration play in the chemotherapy process? How can maintaining good hydration limit/relieve some of the side effects of treatment?

Hydratis to optimize hydration during treatments

Hydratis offers drinkable hydration and rehydration solutions that are particularly useful for dehydrated individuals. The company's goal is to formulate easy-to-drink, pleasant-to-drink solutions that increase the osmolarity of the liquid, allowing it to be assimilated and absorbed by the body more quickly. Hydratis products are offered in oncology kits available in pharmacies.

Water as protection for the kidneys

There are several reasons why a person with cancer must ensure their water intake is adequately met. First, one of the side effects of this therapy is nephrotoxicity. Thus, to protect their kidneys, the patient will be advised to increase their water intake throughout their treatment. Along with renal monitoring in the hospital, this will have the effect of intensifying the elimination of drugs by the kidneys, which will reduce their toxicity.

Individuals undergoing chemotherapy can adopt various strategies to stay deeply hydrated. It is generally recommended to drink up to two liters of water per day. In addition to mineral water, they can drink infusions, soups, or fruit juices, although these should be limited due to their acidic nature. To select the most suitable drinks, patients can seek advice from their medical team. They should also take the precaution of rinsing their mouth after consuming sugary drinks to limit the occurrence of mouth ulcers. In some cases, hyperhydration will be implemented by the oncologist: this consists of an infusion of physiological liquid in addition to significant oral hydration.

 

Hydration to relieve digestive system disorders

Similarly, water can play a beneficial role in the digestive system. Indeed, chemotherapy is often the source of multiple gastrointestinal disorders, which are very bothersome for the patient. Among them, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting are unfortunately common. In addition, the person undergoing chemotherapy may experience a drop in their immune defenses, which will make them more vulnerable to digestive infections caused by various viruses or bacteria.

However, the major risk that diarrhea can represent is dehydration . The symptoms of this are obviously the feeling of thirst, but also a dry mouth or concentrated urine and, when it becomes severe, it can be very dangerous. It is therefore important to carefully counterbalance water loss by hydrating appropriately. The patient is advised to drink large quantities and to divide the intake so as not to further contribute to the onset of vomiting.

Furthermore, the water itself can preferably come from a variety of brands. This will provide additional minerals, and, in addition, some waters have a high sodium bicarbonate content, which, in addition to antiemetic medications, will help alleviate nausea. Similarly, there are commercial rehydration solutions, concentrated in many minerals, which will help the person achieve optimal hydration . However, it is important to keep in mind that any new initiative to take medication, dietary supplements, or herbal products must be submitted to a doctor who will assess its benefits and risks based on the situation.

Constipation can also occur as a reaction to painkillers or antiemetic medications. In this situation, hydration is also important, as a water deficiency can cause stools to harden. Your doctor may be able to prescribe appropriate medication that is compatible with chemotherapy and other concomitant treatments.

Hydration to relieve skin irritation

 

Another visible side effect of chemotherapy is xerosis: intense skin dryness caused in this situation by an alteration of the skin barrier due to the drug treatment. Certain areas are particularly affected: toes, heels and fingers. This dryness manifests itself by peeling of the skin, and sometimes itching, which constitutes an additional unpleasant sensation for the patient. Proper oral hydration is unfortunately not always enough to neutralize it, but fortunately, there are dermo-cosmetic products specially designed for people with cancer and compatible with drug treatment: moisturizing and nourishing creams, shower oils or even nail polish for nails weakened by chemotherapy.

In conclusion, chemotherapy is generally a challenging passage for the person suffering from cancer, but advances in medicine make this therapy increasingly safe and effective. The patient will be accompanied throughout it and will be able to count on the healthcare team to help him overcome the difficulties it poses. Thus, good hydration can sometimes relieve the various negative aspects of drug treatment, and help him take care of his body which will provide him, with a little luck, moments of comfort.