Treatment after chemotherapy: how to restore health?

Treatment after chemotherapy for oncological diseases is a complex, primarily medicinal effect on those systems and organs that have suffered from the negative side effects that accompany the use of all cytostatic, cytotoxic and alkylating antitumor drugs.

These drugs cause the death of cancer cells by damaging their individual structures, including DNA. But, unfortunately, chemical anticancer agents affect not only malignant cells, but also healthy ones. The most vulnerable are labile (rapidly dividing) cells of the bone marrow, hair follicles, skin, mucous membranes, and liver parenchyma. Therefore, to restore the functions of the affected systems and organs, treatment after chemotherapy is mandatory.

Treatment of complications after chemotherapy

Restorative treatment after chemotherapy is necessary for damaged liver cells, which receive increased volumes of toxins and cannot cope with their removal from the body. After chemotherapy, patients experience nausea with vomiting attacks, intestinal disorders (diarrhea) and urination disorders (dysuria); there are often pains in the bones and muscles; dyskinesia of the bile ducts, exacerbations of gastric ulcer and pathologies of the entire gastrointestinal tract are often diagnosed.

Anticancer drugs cause myelosuppression, i.e. they suppress the hematopoietic function of the bone marrow, which causes blood pathologies such as anemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. And the chemical attack on the cells of the lymphoid system tissues and mucous membranes leads to stomatitis (inflammation of the oral mucosa) and inflammation of the bladder (cystitis). In 86% of patients, chemotherapy leads to hair loss, which takes the form of anagen diffuse alopecia.

Since most antitumor agents are immunosuppressants, mitotic division of cells that provide the body's immune defense is almost completely suppressed, and the intensity of phagocytosis is weakened. Therefore, the treatment of complications after chemotherapy should also take into account the need to increase immunity - for the body's resistance to various infections.

Which medications for treatment after chemotherapy should be taken in a given case can only be determined and prescribed by a doctor, depending on the type of underlying oncological pathology, the medication used, the nature of the side effects and the degree of their manifestation.

Thus, the drug Polyoxidonium, which has immunomodulatory properties, is used after chemotherapy to detoxify the body, increase defenses (antibody production) and normalize the phagocytic function of the blood.

Polyoxidonium (Azoximer bromide) is used after chemotherapy of oncological pathologies, helping to reduce the toxic effect of cytostatics on the kidneys and liver. The drug is in the form of a lyophilized mass in vials or ampoules (for preparing a solution for injections) and in the form of suppositories. Polyoxidonium is administered intramuscularly or intravenously after chemotherapy (12 mg every other day), the full course of treatment is 10 injections. The drug is well tolerated, but with intramuscular injections, pain is often felt at the injection site.

What to take after chemotherapy?

Almost all antitumor drugs cause nausea and vomiting in almost all patients - the first sign of their toxicity. To cope with these symptoms, you need to take antiemetic drugs after chemotherapy: Dexamethasone, Tropisetron, Cerucal, etc.

Dexamethasone is successfully used as an antiemetic after chemotherapy. This drug (in 0.5 mg tablets) is a hormone of the adrenal cortex and is a powerful antiallergic and anti-inflammatory drug. Its dosage regimen is determined for each patient individually. At the beginning of treatment, as well as in severe cases, this drug is taken at 10-15 mg per day, as the patient's health improves, the dose is reduced to 4.5 mg per day.

The drug Tropisetron (Tropindol, Navoban) suppresses the gag reflex. It is taken at 5 mg - in the morning, 60 minutes before the first meal (with water), the duration of action is almost 24 hours. Tropisetron can cause abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, headache and dizziness, allergic reactions, weakness, fainting and even cardiac arrest.

The antiemetic drug Cerucal (Metoclopramide, Gastrosil, Perinorm) blocks the passage of impulses to the vomiting center. It is available in the form of tablets (10 mg) and injection solution (in 2 ml ampoules). After chemotherapy, Cerucal is administered intramuscularly or intravenously for 24 hours at a dose of 0.25-0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per hour. Tablets are taken 3-4 times a day, 1 piece (30 minutes before meals). After intravenous administration, the drug begins to act in 3 minutes, after intramuscular - in 10-15 minutes, and after taking a tablet - in 25-35 minutes. Cerucal gives side effects in the form of headache, dizziness, weakness, dry mouth, skin itching and rashes, tachycardia, changes in blood pressure.

Also used are tablets for nausea after chemotherapy Torekan. They relieve nausea due to the ability of the active substance of the drug (thiethylperazine) to block histamine H1 receptors. The drug is prescribed one tablet (6.5 mg) 2-3 times a day. Its possible side effects are similar to the previous drug, plus liver dysfunction and decreased reaction and attention. In case of severe liver and kidney failure, the appointment of Torekan requires caution.

Liver treatment after chemotherapy

Metabolites of anticancer drugs are excreted with urine and bile, that is, both the kidneys and the liver are forced to work under conditions of a "chemical attack" with increased load. Treatment of the liver after chemotherapy - restoration of damaged parenchyma cells and reduction of the risk of fibrous tissue growth - is carried out with the help of liver-protecting drugs - hepatoprotectors.

Most often, oncologists prescribe hepatoprotectors to their patients after chemotherapy, such as Essentiale (Essliver), Gepabene (Carsil, Levasil, etc.), Geptral. Essentiale contains phospholipids, which ensure normal histogenesis of liver tissue; it is prescribed 1-2 capsules three times a day (taken during meals).

The drug Gepabene (based on the medicinal plants fumitory and milk thistle) is prescribed one capsule three times a day (also during meals).

The drug Geptral after chemotherapy also helps to normalize metabolic processes in the liver and stimulates the regeneration of hepatocytes. Geptral after chemotherapy in tablet form should be taken orally (in the first half of the day, between meals) - 2-4 tablets (from 0.8 to 1.6 g) during the day. Geptral in the form of lyophilized powder is used for intramuscular or intravenous injections (4-8 g per day).

Treatment of stomatitis after chemotherapy

Treatment of stomatitis after chemotherapy consists of eliminating inflammation foci on the oral mucosa (on the tongue, gums and inner surface of the cheeks). For this purpose, it is recommended to regularly (4-5 times a day) rinse your mouth with a 0.1% solution of Chlorhexidine, Eludril, Corsodyl or Hexoral. You can use Hexoral in the form of an aerosol, spraying it on the oral mucosa 2-3 times a day - for 2-3 seconds.

Traditional mouth rinses with decoctions of sage, calendula, oak bark or chamomile (a tablespoon per 200 ml of water) are just as effective for stomatitis; rinsing with a solution of alcohol tinctures of calendula, St. John's wort or propolis (30 drops per half a glass of water).

In case of ulcerative stomatitis, it is recommended to use Metrogyl Denta gel, which is used to lubricate the affected areas of the mucous membrane. It should be taken into account that ulcerative and aphthous stomatitis require not only antiseptic therapy, and here doctors can prescribe appropriate antibiotics after chemotherapy.

Treatment of leukopenia after chemotherapy

Chemical action on cancer cells has the most negative effect on the blood composition. Treatment of leukopenia after chemotherapy is aimed at increasing the content of white blood cells - leukocytes and their variety neutrophils (which make up almost half of the leukocyte mass). For this purpose, oncology uses granulocyte growth (colony-stimulating) factors that enhance bone marrow activity.

These include the drug Filgrastim (and its generics - Leukostim, Lenograstim, Granocyte, Granogen, Neupogen, etc.) - in the form of an injection solution. Filgrastim is administered intravenously or subcutaneously once a day; the dose is calculated individually - 5 mg per kilogram of body weight; the standard course of therapy lasts three weeks. When administering the drug, there may be side effects such as myalgia (muscle pain), temporary decrease in blood pressure, increased uric acid levels and urinary dysfunction. During treatment with Filgrastim, constant monitoring of the size of the spleen, urine composition and the number of leukocytes and platelets in the peripheral blood is required. Patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment should not use this drug.

Restorative treatment after chemotherapy involves the use of

The drug Leukogen, which increases leukopoiesis. This low-toxic hemostimulating agent (in tablets of 0.02 g) is well tolerated and is not used only in lymphogranulomatosis and oncological diseases of the hematopoietic organs. Take one tablet 3-4 times a day (before meals).

It should be remembered that the key risk factor for leukopenia that occurs after chemotherapy is the increased vulnerability of the body to various infections. At the same time, as most experts say, antibiotics are certainly used to combat infections after chemotherapy, but their use can significantly worsen the patient's condition with the appearance of fungal stomatitis and other undesirable side effects characteristic of many antibacterial drugs.

Treatment of anemia after chemotherapy

As already noted, chemotherapeutic antitumor agents change the germs of the red bone marrow, which leads to the suppression of the process of red blood cell production - hypochromic anemia (appears with weakness, dizziness and increased fatigue). Treatment of anemia after chemotherapy consists of restoring the hematopoietic functions of the bone marrow.

For this purpose, doctors prescribe drugs for treatment after chemotherapy, stimulating the division of bone marrow cells and, thus, accelerating the synthesis of red blood cells. Erythropoietin (synonyms - Procrit, Epoetin, Epogen, Erythrostim, Recormon) - a synthetic glycoprotein hormone of the kidneys that activates the formation of red blood cells - is one of such drugs. The drug is administered subcutaneously; the doctor determines the dosage individually - based on a blood test; the initial dose is 20 IU per kilogram of body weight (injections are given three times a week). In case of insufficient effectiveness, the doctor can increase the single dose to 40 IU. This drug is not used in cases of severe arterial hypertension in patients. The list of side effects of this drug includes flu-like symptoms, allergic reactions (itching of the skin, urticaria) and increased blood pressure up to a hypertensive crisis.

Since the production of the hormone erythropoietin is increased by glucocorticoid hormones, prednisolone is used to stimulate hematopoiesis after chemotherapy: from 4 to 6 tablets during the day - in three doses. Moreover, the maximum dose is taken in the morning (after meals).

Ceruloplasmin (a human serum glycoprotein containing copper), which is a biogenic stimulant, is also used to treat anemia after chemotherapy and to restore immunity. The drug (a solution in ampoules or vials) is administered intravenously once - 2-4 mg per kilogram of body weight (every day or every other day). Ceruloplasmin is not used in case of hypersensitivity to drugs of protein origin. Possible side effects include flushes, nausea, chills, skin rashes and fever.

In addition, anemia after chemotherapy is treated with iron preparations - iron gluconate or lactate, as well as the drug Totema. The liquid drug Totema, in addition to iron, contains copper and manganese, which participate in the synthesis of hemoglobin. The contents of the ampoule should be dissolved in 180-200 ml of water and taken on an empty stomach, during or after meals. The minimum daily dose is 1 ampoule, the maximum is 4 ampoules. The drug is not prescribed for exacerbation of gastric ulcer or duodenal ulcer. Possible side effects include itching, skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

In particularly severe cases of anemia, a blood or red blood cell transfusion may be prescribed. All specialists in the field of clinical oncology consider adequate nutrition after chemotherapy to be a prerequisite for successful treatment of blood pathologies.

Treatment of thrombocytopenia after chemotherapy

Prompt treatment of thrombocytopenia after chemotherapy is extremely important, since low platelet levels reduce the blood's ability to clot, and decreased coagulation can lead to bleeding.

In the treatment of thrombocytopenia, the drug Erythrophosphatide, which is obtained from human red blood cells, is widely used. This drug not only increases the number of platelets, but also increases blood viscosity, helping to prevent bleeding. Erythrophosphatide is injected into the muscle - 150 mg once every 4-5 days; the course of treatment consists of 15 injections. But with increased blood clotting, this drug is contraindicated.

Dexamethasone after chemotherapy is used not only to suppress nausea and vomiting (as discussed above), but also to increase platelet levels in the treatment of thrombocytopenia after chemotherapy. In addition to Dexamethasone, doctors prescribe glucocorticosteroids such as Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone or Triamcinolone (30-60 mg per day).

The drug Etamzilat (generics - Dicynone, Aglumin, Altodor, Cyclonamine, Dicynene, Impedil) stimulates the formation of factor III of blood coagulation and normalizes platelet adhesion. It is recommended to take one tablet (0.25 mg) three times a day; the minimum duration of administration is a week.

The drug Revolade (Eltrombopag) also stimulates platelet synthesis and is taken in a dosage individually selected by the doctor, for example, 50 mg once a day. As a rule, the number of platelets increases after 7-10 days of treatment. However, this drug has side effects such as dry mouth, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, hair loss, back pain.

Treatment for Diarrhea After Chemotherapy

Drug treatment of diarrhea after chemotherapy is carried out using the drug Loperamide (synonyms - Loperamide, Imodium, Enterobene). It is taken orally at 4 mg (2 capsules of 2 mg) and 2 mg after each case of loose stool. The maximum daily dose is 16 mg. Loperamide can side-effect headache and dizziness, sleep disorders, dry mouth, nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain.

The drug Diosorb (synonyms - dioctahedral smectite, Smecta, Neosmectin, Diosmectite) strengthens the mucous surfaces of the intestines in diarrhea of any etiology. The drug in powder form should be taken after diluting it in 100 ml of water. The daily dose is three sachets three times a day. It should be taken into account that Diosorb affects the absorption of other drugs taken orally, so this drug can only be taken 90 minutes after taking any other drug.

The antidiarrheal agent Neointestopan (Attapulgite) adsorbs pathogenic agents and toxins in the intestines, normalizes intestinal flora and reduces the number of bowel movements. The drug is recommended to be taken first 4 tablets, and then 2 tablets after each bowel movement (maximum daily dose - 12 tablets).

If diarrhea continues for more than two days and threatens dehydration, Octreotide (Sandostatin) should be prescribed, which is available as an injection solution and is administered subcutaneously (0.1-0.15 mg three times a day). The drug has side effects: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, cramping abdominal pain and a feeling of bloating.

Antibiotics after chemotherapy are prescribed by a doctor in cases where diarrhea is accompanied by a significant increase in body temperature (+38.5°C and above).

To normalize bowel function in the treatment of diarrhea after chemotherapy

Various biopreparations are used. For example, Bificol or Bactisubtil - one capsule three times a day. In addition, specialists advise eating fractionally, in small portions and drinking plenty of liquid.

Treatment of cystitis after chemotherapy

After the administration of anticancer drugs, treatment for cystitis after chemotherapy may be necessary, since the kidneys and bladder are actively involved in removing the biotransformation products of these drugs from the body.

Excess uric acid, which is formed during the death of cancer cells (due to the breakdown of their protein components), causes damage to the glomerular apparatus and renal parenchyma, disrupting the normal functioning of the entire urinary system. With so-called drug-induced uric acid nephropathy, the urinary bladder also suffers: when its mucous membrane is inflamed, urination becomes frequent, painful, often difficult, with an admixture of blood; the temperature may rise.

Treatment of cystitis after chemotherapy is carried out with diuretics, antispasmodics, and anti-inflammatory drugs. The diuretic Furosemide (synonyms - Lasix, Diusemid, Diuzol, Frusemide, Uritol, etc.) in tablets of 0.4 g is taken one tablet once a day (in the morning), the dose can be increased to 2-4 tablets per day (taken every 6-8 hours). The drug is very effective, but its side effects include nausea, diarrhea, redness of the skin, itching, decreased blood pressure, muscle weakness, thirst, decreased potassium levels in the blood.

To avoid side effects, you can brew and take infusions and decoctions of diuretic herbs: bearberry, corn silk, knotweed, marsh cudweed, etc.

The antiseptic drug Urobesal helps well with cystitis, it is usually taken 3-4 times a day, one tablet at a time, until the signs of the disease disappear. To relieve spasms of the bladder, Spazmex is prescribed (tablets of 5, 15 and 30 mg): 10 mg three times a day or 15 mg twice a day (take whole, before meals, with glasses of water). After taking it, dry mouth, nausea, dyspepsia, constipation, abdominal pain are possible.

To treat cystitis after chemotherapy (in severe cases), the doctor may prescribe antibiotics of the cephalosporin or fluoroquinolone class. And for minor manifestations, you can get by with a decoction of lingonberry leaf: a tablespoon of dry leaf is brewed with 200-250 ml of boiling water, infused for an hour and a half and taken half a glass three times a day (before meals).

Treatment of polyneuropathy after chemotherapy

Treatment of polyneuropathy after chemotherapy is necessary for almost all cancer patients, since antitumor drugs are highly neurotoxic.

Peripheral nervous system disorders (changes in skin sensitivity, numbness and coldness in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, pain in the joints and throughout the body, cramps, etc.) are treated. What to take after chemotherapy in this case?

Doctors recommend painkillers after chemotherapy. Which ones? Joint pain and pain throughout the body are usually relieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Very often doctors prescribe paracetamol after chemotherapy. Paracetamol not only relieves pain, but is also a good antipyretic and anti-inflammatory agent. A single dose of the drug (for adults) is 0.35-0.5 g 3-4 times a day; the maximum single dose is 1.5 g, and the daily dose is up to 4 g. The drug should be taken after meals, washed down with plenty of water.

To relieve pain and activate the restoration of nerve fiber cells in polyneuropathy, the drug Berlition (synonyms - Alpha-lipoic acid, Espa-lipon, Thiogamma) is prescribed in tablets of 0.3 mg and capsules of 0.3 and 0.6 mg. The active substance of the drug, alpha-lipoic acid, improves blood supply to the peripheral nervous system and promotes the synthesis of glutathione tripeptide, a natural antioxidant substance. The daily dose is 0.6-1.2 mg, taken once a day (half an hour before breakfast). Possible side effects: skin rash and itching, nausea, vomiting, bowel disorders, symptoms of hypoglycemia (headache, increased sweating). In diabetes mellitus, Berlition is prescribed with caution.

Treatment of polyneuropathy after chemotherapy - in cases of decreased nerve conduction and muscle pain - includes a complex of B vitamins Milgamma (vitamins B1, B6, B12). It can be administered intramuscularly (2 ml three times a week), or taken orally - one tablet three times a day (for 30 days). The list of side effects of this vitamin preparation includes allergic reactions, increased sweating, cardiac arrhythmia, dizziness, nausea. The drug is contraindicated in all forms of heart failure.

Vein Treatment After Chemotherapy

Treatment of veins after chemotherapy is caused by the fact that during the intravenous administration of antitumor drugs, their inflammation occurs - toxic phlebitis, the characteristic signs of which are reddening of the skin at the puncture site, very noticeable pain and a burning sensation along the vein.

Also, phlebosclerosis may develop in the vein located in the elbow and shoulder - thickening of the vessel walls due to the growth of fibrous tissue with narrowing of the lumen and even complete blockage by a thrombus. As a result, venous blood flow is disrupted. Treatment of such complications after chemotherapy involves applying a bandage with an elastic bandage and ensuring rest.

For local use, the following medications are recommended for treatment after chemotherapy: Hepatrombin ointment, Indovazin ointment or gel, Troxevasin ointment, etc. All these products should be applied (without rubbing) to the skin areas above the vein 2-3 times a day.

In addition, complex treatment of veins after chemotherapy includes the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anticoagulant drugs. For example, the thrombolytic drug Gumbix is prescribed: orally one tablet (100 mg) 2-3 times a day, after meals.

Vitamins after chemotherapy

Vitamins after chemotherapy are widely used in oncology practice, as they provide invaluable assistance to the body - in the process of restoring all damaged tissues and the normal functioning of all organs.

Treatment of complications after chemotherapy with vitamins is carried out in combination with symptomatic treatment. In case of anemia (for the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of hemoglobin), as well as to accelerate the regeneration of mucous membranes, it is recommended to take vitamins of group B - B2, B6, B9 and B12; to cope with thrombocytopenia, carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C and folic acid (vitamin B9) are necessary.

For example, the drug Neurobeks, in addition to B vitamins, contains vitamins C and PP. It is taken 1 tablet twice a day, after meals. Vitamin B15 (Calcium pangamate tablets) promotes better lipid metabolism and oxygen uptake by cells; it is recommended to take 1-2 tablets three times a day.

And taking Calcium folinate (a vitamin-like substance) replenishes the deficiency of folic acid and helps restore normal synthesis of nucleic acids in the body.

Dietary supplements after chemotherapy

To improve your well-being, you can take some dietary supplements after chemotherapy, which contain vitamins, microelements and biologically active substances of medicinal plants. Thus, the Nutrimax+ supplement contains angelica (painkiller, increases hemoglobin levels), witch hazel (Virgin nut - relieves inflammation, strengthens the walls of blood vessels), the diuretic herb bearberry, B vitamins, vitamin D3, biotin (vitamin H), nicotinic acid (vitamin PP), iron gluconate, calcium phosphate and magnesium carbonate.

The biologically active supplement Antiox contains: grape pomace extract, the medicinal plant ginkgo biloba, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, yeast enriched with selenium and zinc oxide.

It is useful for patients to know that no dietary supplement is considered a medicine. If, in case of liver damage, it was recommended to take dietary supplements after chemotherapy, for example, Coopers or Liver 48, then keep in mind that they contain the same plant components - milk thistle, sandy immortelle, stinging nettle, plantain and fennel. And the dietary supplement Flor-Essence consists of such plants as burdock root, milk thistle, meadow clover, sorrel, brown algae, etc.

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Treatment with folk remedies after chemotherapy

A wide range of ways to get rid of the side effects of anti-cancer drugs is offered by treatment with folk remedies after chemotherapy.

For example, to increase the level of leukocytes in leukopenia, it is recommended to use oats after chemotherapy. Whole grains of this cereal contain vitamins A, E and B vitamins; essential amino acids valine, methionine, isoleucine, leucine and tyrosine; macroelements (magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium); microelements (iron, zinc, manganese, copper, molybdenum). But oats are especially rich in silicon, and this chemical element provides strength and elasticity of all connective tissues, mucous membranes and walls of blood vessels.

Polyphenols and flavonoids of oats help the process of lipid metabolism and facilitate the work of the liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract. Milk decoction of oats after chemotherapy is considered useful for liver dysfunction. To prepare it, take a tablespoon of whole grains per 250 ml of milk and cook over low heat for 15 minutes, then let the decoction sit for another 15 minutes. It should be taken as follows: on the first day - half a glass, on the second - a glass (in two doses), on the third - one and a half glasses (in three doses) and so on - up to one liter (the amount of oats increases each time accordingly). After this, the intake of the decoction is also gradually reduced to the initial dosage.

A regular (water) oat decoction after chemotherapy improves blood composition. It is necessary to pour 200 g of washed whole grains with a liter of cold water and cook on low heat for 25 minutes. After this, the decoction should be filtered and drunk half a glass three times a day (you can add natural honey).

Rich in thiamine (vitamin B1), choline, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, manganese, selenium and fiber, flaxseed after chemotherapy can help remove metabolites of anti-cancer drugs and toxins from the cancer cells they kill from the body.

The infusion is prepared at the rate of 4 tablespoons of seed per liter of water: pour the seeds into a thermos, pour boiling water and leave for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight). In the morning, strain the infusion and add about a glass of boiling water. Flax seed after chemotherapy in the form of such an infusion is recommended to drink every day, a liter (regardless of meals). The course of treatment is 15 days.

Flaxseed after chemotherapy is contraindicated for use in the presence of problems with the gallbladder (cholecystitis), pancreas (pancreatitis) and intestines (colitis). It is strictly contraindicated - with stones in the gallbladder or urinary bladder.

By the way, flaxseed oil - a tablespoon a day - helps strengthen the body's defenses.

Treatment with folk remedies after chemotherapy includes the use of such a biogenic stimulant as mumiyo.

Due to the content of humic and fulvic amino acids, mumiyo after chemotherapy promotes the regeneration of damaged tissues, including the liver parenchyma, and activates the process of hematopoiesis, increasing the level of erythrocytes and leukocytes (but reducing the content of platelets).

Mumiyo - Dry mumiyo extract (in tablets of 0.2 g) - it is recommended to take by dissolving the tablet in a tablespoon of boiled water: in the morning - before breakfast, in the afternoon - two hours before meals, in the evening - three hours after meals. The course of treatment with mumiyo after chemotherapy is 10 days. It can be repeated after a week.

Herbal treatment after chemotherapy

Herbal treatment after chemotherapy seems more than justified, since even all known hepatoprotective drugs have a plant base (which was discussed in the relevant section).

Phytotherapists have created a herbal mixture 5 after chemotherapy. One version includes only two medicinal plants - St. John's wort and yarrow, which have a positive effect on intestinal disorders and diarrhea. Dry herbs are mixed in a 1:1 ratio and a tablespoon of this mixture, poured with 200 ml of boiling water, is infused under a lid for half an hour. It is recommended to drink the infusion warm, twice a day, 100 ml.

Herbal collection 5 after chemotherapy has a second version, consisting of yarrow, St. John's wort, peppermint, knotweed, succession, sweet clover; leaves of stinging nettle and plantain; birch buds; roots of cinquefoil, dandelion, bergenia and elecampane, as well as flowers of chamomile, calendula and tansy. According to experts in medicinal plants, this collection is almost universal and can significantly improve the condition of patients after chemotherapy.

The herbal tea after chemotherapy, which improves blood counts and increases hemoglobin levels, includes stinging nettle, oregano, white deadnettle, peppermint, St. John's wort, red clover, and couch grass (in equal proportions). The water infusion is prepared in the usual way: a tablespoon of the herbal mixture is brewed with a glass of boiling water, infused for 20 minutes in a closed container, and then filtered. Take two tablespoons three times a day (40 minutes before meals).

Ivan-tea (fireweed) contains so many useful substances that it has long earned the reputation of a natural healer. Herbal treatment after chemotherapy without the antioxidant capabilities of fireweed will be incomplete, because its decoction can not only strengthen the immune system, but also improve the hematopoietic function of the bone marrow, improve metabolism, and relieve inflammation of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a good cleanser of toxins, as well as a choleretic and diuretic. Fireweed infusion is prepared like the herbal collection described above, but it should be taken twice a day (25 minutes before breakfast and before dinner) half a glass at a time. The course of treatment is a month.

In addition to herbs, many doctors recommend using liquid alcohol extracts of adaptogenic plants such as Eleutherococcus, Rhodiola rosea and Leuzea saphroides in post-chemotherapy rehabilitation. These general tonics are taken twice a day before meals, 25-30 drops per 50 ml of water.

Hair restoration after chemotherapy

Among the methods of fighting for hair restoration after chemotherapy, herbal remedies are in the first place. It is recommended to rinse your head with decoctions of nettle, burdock root, hop cones after washing: take 2-3 tablespoons of herbs per 500 ml of boiling water, brew, leave for 2 hours, strain and use as a rinse. It is recommended to leave the decoctions on the head, without wiping dry, and even rub them into the skin a little. This procedure can be done every other day.

By the way, after chemotherapy, you should choose a shampoo that contains extracts of these plants.

An unexpected, but nevertheless effective treatment for hair complications after chemotherapy is carried out by activating the cells of the hair follicles with the help of hot red pepper. Pepper copes with this task thanks to its hot alkaloid capsaicin. Its distracting and analgesic properties, used in ointments and gels for joint and muscle pain, are based on the activation of local blood circulation. The same principle works on hair follicles, which are better nourished by the blood flow. To do this, apply a gruel of rye bread soaked in water with the addition of a crushed hot pepper pod to the scalp. Keep it as long as you can stand it, and then rinse thoroughly. Pepper can be replaced with grated onions: the effect will be similar, but the procedure itself is more gentle. After this, it is useful to lubricate the scalp with burdock oil and keep it for 2-3 hours.

Hair restoration after chemotherapy can be done with the help of masks. For example, a mask of the following composition perfectly strengthens hair: mix honey and aloe juice (a tablespoon each), finely grated garlic (a teaspoon) and a raw egg yolk. This mixture is applied to the scalp, covered with a cotton scarf or towel on top, and then with plastic wrap - for 25 minutes. Then the head should be washed thoroughly.

It is useful to rub a mixture of olive and sea buckthorn oils (a tablespoon each) with essential oils of cedar and rosemary (4-5 drops of each) into the scalp. It is recommended to keep the oil on, wrapping your head, for 20-30 minutes.

The condition of patients who have undergone chemical treatment for cancer is defined in clinical medicine as a drug disease or iatrogenic (drug) poisoning of the body. Timely and adequate treatment after chemotherapy will help restore the normal composition of blood, liver cells, gastrointestinal tract functions, epidermis, mucous membranes and hair.