Anemia (low red blood cell count) decreases the body's ability to carry oxygen and iron. It can occur 7-14 days after each chemotherapy treatment, but is more likely to occur after many months of treatment. Your doctor may prescribe erythropoietin (Epogen®) to minimize this side effect. This drug is given by injection at home, usually by the patient or a family member, on specific days after the chemotherapy treatment. If you are to receive this drug, your doctor or nurse will instruct you on how to administer it.
Self-Care Measures:
- Eat lean meat, chicken, dried apricots, raisins, split-peas, and lima beans to increase dietary iron.
- Limit your activities to conserve energy.
- Perform activities at high energy times.
- Change positions slowly, e.g., from sitting to standing.
- Take iron supplements if prescribed.
Things to Avoid:
- Strenuous activities
- High-altitude environments (may cause extreme dizziness)
Contact your physician or nurse if you have:
- Dizziness.
- Severe fatigue.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
