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How can I manage side effects of chemotherapy?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 47-year-old female with stage 3 breast cancer. I started chemotherapy and radiation last week. My skin is falling off, and my hair is coming out in clumps. The itching is so bad I wake up with blood under my fingernails. What can I do about this awful itching? Any remedy to keep my skin looking healthy and fine? Any skin cream that works? How do patients like me deal with it?

Please help me.

Thanks.
Answered by Dr. Jain Tushar Pukharaj

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Tushar Jain is a Pulmonologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, lung infections, and sleep-related breathing disorders. He also has clinical expertise in critical care, infectious diseases, allergy management, and internal medicine. With a patient-focused approach, Dr. Jain emphasizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care plans to improve breathing health and overall well-being. He regularly treats complex respiratory and critical-care cases and is committed to early intervention and preventive healthcare. Dr. Jain currently provides consultation and advanced lung-care services at his clinic, helping patients achieve better long-term respiratory health and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Skincare and itching relief

  1. Topical creams: Over-the-counter creams like Hydrocortisone, Calamine lotion, or aloe vera gel can help soothe itchy skin.

  2. Moisturizers: Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated.

  3. Cool compresses: Apply cool, wet compresses to itchy areas to reduce discomfort.

  4. Oatmeal baths: Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe itchy skin. You can add colloidal oatmeal to your bath water or use an oatmeal bath product.

Hair loss

  1. Scalp cooling systems: These systems can help reduce hair loss during chemotherapy. Discuss this option with your oncologist.

  2. Wigs, hats, or scarves: Consider using these to cover your hair loss and protect your scalp.

Managing symptoms

  1. Explain your situation and see if any accommodations can be made to support you.

  2. Take short breaks during the day to rest and manage your symptoms.

I hope this information helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 31, 2025
Reviewed At May 29, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Tushar Jain is a Pulmonologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, lung infections, and sleep-related breathing disorders. He also has clinical expertise in critical care, infectious diseases, allergy management, and internal medicine. With a patient-focused approach, Dr. Jain emphasizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care plans to improve breathing health and overall well-being. He regularly treats complex respiratory and critical-care cases and is committed to early intervention and preventive healthcare. Dr. Jain currently provides consultation and advanced lung-care services at his clinic, helping patients achieve better long-term respiratory health and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Dr. Jain Tushar Pukharaj

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Tushar Jain is a Pulmonologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD, lung infections, and sleep-related breathing disorders. He also has clinical expertise in critical care, infectious diseases, allergy management, and internal medicine. With a patient-focused approach, Dr. Jain emphasizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care plans to improve breathing health and overall well-being. He regularly treats complex respiratory and critical-care cases and is committed to early intervention and preventive healthcare. Dr. Jain currently provides consultation and advanced lung-care services at his clinic, helping patients achieve better long-term respiratory health and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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