Testicular Cancer

Home treatment can help you manage the side effects that may occur from your treatment. Some treatments for testicular cancer, such as chemotherapy or radiation, can have serious side effects. Be sure to follow any instructions and take medicines given to you by your doctor.

Manage side effects

• Reference Home treatment for nausea or vomiting includes watching for and treating early signs of Reference dehydration Opens New Window, such as having a dry mouth or feeling lightheaded when you stand up. Eating smaller meals may help. So can a little bit of ginger candy or ginger tea.
• Reference Home treatment for diarrhea includes resting your stomach and being alert for signs of dehydration. Check with your doctor before using any nonprescription medicines for your diarrhea.
• Reference Home treatment for constipation includes gentle exercise along with adequate intake of fluids and a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Check with your doctor before using a laxative for your constipation.
• Reference Home treatment for fatigue includes making sure you get extra rest while you are receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Let your symptoms be your guide. You may be able to follow your usual routine and just get some extra sleep. Fatigue is often worse at the end of treatment or just after treatment is completed.
• Reference Home treatment for pain includes using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) or an alternative therapy, such as biofeedback.

  Reference Reference Cancer: Controlling Cancer Pain

Practice healthy habits

Healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep and exercise may help control your symptoms.

• Reference Eat well. Try to eat a balanced diet to prevent weight loss and to conserve your strength during treatment for testicular cancer.
• Reference Get enough sleep. If you find you have trouble sleeping, be sure to have a regular bedtime, get some exercise during the day, avoid caffeine late in the day, and follow other tips to help you sleep more easily.

Manage your feelings

• Reference Manage stress. This may include expressing your feelings to others. Learning relaxation techniques may also be helpful. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, and support groups may help too.
• Reference Understand hair loss. Hair loss can be emotionally distressing. Talk to your doctor about whether hair loss is an expected side effect with the medicines you will receive.
• Reference Accept your emotional reactions. Your reactions may make it harder to make decisions about your health. Talk with your doctor or others about your feelings.
• Reference Understand your feelings about your body and your sexuality. Your attitudes may change following treatment for cancer. Your doctor may be able to refer you to organizations that can offer additional support and information.

To learn more, see the topic Reference Getting Support When You Have Cancer.

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