Hair
1. When will my hair fall out?
Not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. Your doctor or nurse will tell you about the possible changes you can expect. If you are taking a chemotherapy drug that causes hair loss, damage to the hair follicle is immediate, but you probably will not notice the results of the damage for a few weeks.

2. Why does hair fall out?
Chemotherapy damages cells that rapidly divide. As a result, cancer cells are vulnerable to chemotherapy, but so are the normal rapidly dividing cells in your body. Hair follicles divide frequently, causing a temporary hair loss.

3. How much hair will I lose?
Sometimes hair loss will show up in patches, or all the hair on your head can be lost. Since the hair on the rest of your body does not grow as rapidly as the hair on your head, you may not notice hair loss from other areas.

4. Will it grow back? When?
Damaged hair follicles recover quickly from the side effects of chemotherapy. But, since hair grows slowly, you probably won't notice hair growth until a month or two after all chemotherapy is completed. REMEMBER: This hair loss is TEMPORARY.

5. Who can help me with a wig?
At "Irene's Shop on Main" we provide experienced sales people, individual attention, and privacy. For a better result, snip samples of your hair from the front and back, and take photos of your hairline from all sides. This will help you match the wig's style and color to yours.

6. When should I get one?
This is an individual decision. Some women choose not to get a wig at all. If you decide to wear head wraps or scarves, or if you choose not to use any head covering, don't forget the sunscreen! You don't want to get sunburned.

7. Will my insurance cover the cost?
The cost of a wig can range from $125 to several hundred dollars. The cost may be covered by your insurance. Be sure to contact your insurance carrier to verify coverage. Ask them if your doctor needs to submit a prescription and if is there any other documentation they need.

8. How will radiation affect my hair?
Unlike chemotherapy, the effects of radiation do not travel throughout your body. Only hair that is directly exposed to radiation is affected. The amount of radiation on your scalp will dictate whether your hair loss is temporary or permanent. Unless your scalp is directly exposed to radiation, you should not experience hair loss.

Skin and Nails
1. What can I do to take care of my skin?
Chemotherapy can cause dry skin and sun sensitivity. Lubricate your skin using a water-based moisturizer together with a moisturizing soap. Avoid alcohol-based products. Avoid scratchy fabrics and wear loose-fitting clothes. Ask your physician or nurse to recommend products for your skin. Don't forget the sunscreen!

2. What about my nails?
Chemotherapy can cause your nails to become brittle and grow slower than usual or become very soft. It is common to see a white or dark ridge in the nail after several weeks of chemotherapy. File your nails short and protect them from added stress, but do not cut your cuticles. Don't use artificial nails; they could possibly cause a hard-to-treat fungal infection. Do not use alcohol-based polish or polish remover.

3. What effects does radiation have on skin and fingernails?
Skin can become dry and sensitive from radiation. To help prevent dry or itchy skin, take warm (not hot) showers or baths. Hot water can dry your skin. Lubricate irritated areas with a water-based moisturizer and use a lubricating soap. Be sure to use sunscreen with at least SPF15. Radiation therapy causes your body to make more melanin, and your skin may become darker in the treated areas only. This is a temporary condition.

4. What is radiation dermatitis?
Radiation dermatitis is a condition of the radiation-exposed skin. The skin can become red, itchy, and uncomfortable. The affected area can also become dry and flaky. Your physician will prescribe something for you that promotes healing. Some factors that determine whether or not you experience this skin problem include the kind of radiation beam, the part of your body that is being radiated, and the dose and duration of treatment.

When having radiation treatments:
a.  Do not use deodorants, perfumes, or other cosmetics on treated areas.
b.  Do use an electric razor if you must shave.
c.  Do not apply cold packs or heat to affected areas.
d.  Avoid direct sunlight on affected areas.
e.  Do moisturize with a doctor-recommended product.
f.   Do inform your doctor or nurse if you notice any changes in the color of your skin or any signs of a skin infection.

Breast Prosthesis
1. What about a breast prosthesis?
Most of us feel the need to be cosmetically acceptable, so you will probably wear a prosthesis. They are available in many shapes, sizes, and colors. The price will depend on the quality. Regardless of your preferences, a breast prosthesis should always be fitted by someone certified to do so. You can usually be fitted four to six weeks after surgery. Special bras are available, or you may even be able to use your own bra. You may also choose to wear a camisole. At Irene's Shop on Main, Denise, our Board Certified Fitter is available to help you choose the products best suited to meet your individual needs.

2. Will my insurance cover a prosthesis?
Medicare covers a breast prosthesis and bra. Most insurance carriers cover these items as well. Be sure to get a prescription from your doctor, and contact your insurance carrier for your coverage information.