Hina Khan, the renowned actress, continues to inspire people with her openness about her journey through breast cancer treatment. In a recent podcast, she shared the emotional and physical struggles she faced during chemotherapy. The 37-year-old actress recalled how she used to feel an overwhelming chill, even in the middle of her treatment. “I used to sleep in three quilts at night throughout my chemotherapy journey. Three quilts, gloves, topi (cap), mota socks (thick socks). This is how I slept throughout my chemotherapy. I used to feel so cold. I used to shiver,” she told Pinkvilla.
For many cancer patients, chemotherapy is not just a physical battle against the disease but also an emotional and mental struggle. The effects are often unpredictable, and as Hina Khan describes, even basic comfort measures such as warmth become a challenge. The sensation of extreme cold is not unique to Khan but is, in fact, a known side effect of chemotherapy. Her candid sharing about how her body reacted to the treatment provides insight into an often-overlooked aspect of cancer therapy.
Understanding why chemotherapy causes such symptoms is essential for patients and their caregivers. Dr. Ravi Wategaonkar, director of medical oncology at TGH Oncolife Cancer Centre, explains that chemotherapy is a potent treatment option for cancer that aims to improve a patient’s quality of life. However, it comes with its set of common side effects, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and weakened immunity. While these side effects are well-known, some of the more subtle symptoms, such as the sensation of extreme cold, are often less discussed but no less impactful.
Dr. Nithin SG, a consultant in medical oncology at the CK Birla Hospital® in Delhi, delves into the physiological reasons behind the cold sensation many chemotherapy patients experience. According to Dr. Nithin, chemotherapy can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature effectively. This dysfunction occurs due to several factors, including direct interference with the brain’s temperature control mechanisms and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. For some patients, chemotherapy results in cold intolerance, making them feel excessively cold. Others may experience hot flashes or night sweats, highlighting the complex effects chemotherapy has on the body.
The body’s inability to regulate its temperature adequately during chemotherapy can be caused by peripheral neuropathy, which is a condition affecting the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. This condition can lead to various sensations, including a feeling of coldness or warmth. Furthermore, anemia, another common side effect of chemotherapy, can contribute to the body’s increased sensitivity to temperature changes. These changes can make simple daily activities, like sleeping, difficult for patients already dealing with the emotional strain of cancer treatment.
Hina Khan’s testimony serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing the lesser-known side effects of cancer treatments. While physical symptoms such as nausea and fatigue are often the focus of cancer care discussions, conditions like cold intolerance can significantly impact a patient’s comfort and well-being. For patients undergoing chemotherapy, understanding the potential challenges, like feeling cold despite multiple layers, can help them prepare mentally and emotionally for the road ahead.
Through her openness, Khan helps destigmatize the experience of cancer treatment and fosters a greater understanding of what many patients go through in their battle with the disease. For those undergoing chemotherapy, it is crucial to listen to their bodies and seek ways to mitigate discomfort, whether that involves using additional blankets, wearing warm clothing, or consulting with their doctors for further advice on managing temperature fluctuations.
In sharing her experience, Hina Khan not only highlights her strength but also provides a voice to others who might feel alone in their struggles. Her willingness to speak out about the physical realities of chemotherapy helps create a more empathetic and supportive environment for those fighting cancer.
As Hina Khan continues to share her personal journey with breast cancer, her story resonates deeply with many cancer patients and their families. Her vulnerability in talking about the uncomfortable, yet very real, side effects of chemotherapy serves as a beacon of strength for others. For those going through similar experiences, Khan’s openness provides not just comfort but also practical insights into the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment.
The reality of chemotherapy is that it often forces patients to adapt to a new normal. For Hina, it meant adjusting to nights spent shivering despite being wrapped in multiple quilts, gloves, and thick socks. Her experience highlights the resilience needed to push through treatment, where the body’s response to chemotherapy can sometimes feel overwhelming. The coldness she describes is not just a minor inconvenience, but a reminder of the intense physical toll chemotherapy can take on the body.
While Khan’s shared experience is one of warmth in the face of adversity, it also serves as a reminder for healthcare providers to consider the full spectrum of patient care. Oncology treatments focus primarily on fighting the disease, but it is equally important to manage the side effects in ways that improve the patient’s quality of life. From temperature sensitivity to fatigue, the physical side effects of chemotherapy need to be addressed holistically, with attention to small details that can make a significant difference.
For patients like Hina Khan, managing the coldness during chemotherapy can involve not just physical comfort but emotional care as well. As chemotherapy can often leave patients feeling vulnerable and exhausted, a strong support system becomes crucial. Whether through family, friends, or even medical professionals, a network of understanding can alleviate some of the discomfort that comes with these less talked-about side effects.
Hina Khan’s journey also sheds light on the importance of mental health during cancer treatment. While the coldness she experienced was one of the many physical challenges, the emotional toll of battling cancer is equally significant. Through her openness on social media and in interviews, she encourages other patients to express their feelings and seek the support they need. The mental strain of coping with chemotherapy’s effects should not be underestimated, and having an outlet to talk about those experiences can often bring much-needed relief.
It’s also worth noting that medical science continues to make advancements in addressing side effects like cold intolerance. For instance, some chemotherapy patients now have access to newer medications that help regulate temperature sensitivity. As research in oncology evolves, so too does the approach to managing the side effects of treatment. Hina’s experience serves as a reminder that patient-centered care, which takes into account both physical and emotional aspects of treatment, is essential for improving overall outcomes.
By continuing to document her journey, Hina Khan not only breaks down the stigma surrounding cancer but also empowers others facing similar battles to speak out. Her courage and honesty allow for a broader conversation about the often-unseen struggles of cancer treatment, fostering a more supportive and understanding community for patients everywhere.