For children (especially teen-agers) self esteem and self confidence are often closely related to physical appearance. Changes in appearance may lead to an altered self image.
- A common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation treatment is hair loss, which will occur in varying degrees from child to child and treatment to treatment. While bald patches around surgical scars may attract unwanted stares or questions, the hair will usually grow back.
- Steroids (like Decadron) can cause children to gain weight and to have a puffy “moon” face and acne. You may want to talk about these changes ahead of time so your child understands what to expect. These changes in appearance return to normal once the steroids are stopped.
- Consider buying a wig after surgery, but before any treatment begins so that you can match your child’s hair color. Check with the radiation oncology department for a list of local wig salons that cater to pediatric cancer patients.
- Show your child that you accept any physical changes, even if you find them more upsetting to you. Humor can be useful in talking about these changes and in encouraging conversation between your child and his or her peers.
- It might also help for your child to meet and talk with other children who are experiencing similar problems.
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