Susan, all the side effects the doctor mentioned are correct. Your sister needs to remember that these are usually temporary inconviences. Going thru chemo and rad is no picnic and yes she will probably struggle like most of us did. It is necessary and must be done to get well. Unfortunately, the side effects worsen as treatment progresses. Just because the doc was thorough and told her all about the side effects does not mean this will happen to her. Some patients are fortunate and sail right thru while others suffer the side effects. Everyone is different. Be glad the doctor is honest and gives her full info.

Teeth are very important to take care of during treatment. I did my best but radiation loosened my teeth and I had to have them removed last year. She should see the dentist immediately and get floride trays made to use daily. She will want to take care of any cavaties and have any teeth removed which could be problems later. This is very important that its taken care of before treatment starts. Radiation can cause some big problems with having dental work done after treatment.

Your sister should be taking soemone to all her doctor appointments. She probably heard the side effects and tuned out the rest. Thats what most people do so thats why its so important to have another set of ears there. She can also ask to record the appointment with a small tape recorder. The person that goes with her should be taking notes too. If someone had gone with her, you would have full info and not bother yoru sister with asking her a million questions about what happened at the appointment.

Dont worry about stocking up on creams. Thats something the doc will give her prescriptions for. There are many kinds of creams to help ease the skin irritaitons. Over the counter stuff isnt strong enough. Any cream or lotion should be put on only after radiation. Never put it on before going to treatment. Using the creams will help to prevent scarring. My neck was burned and had open wounds on it but I kept putting the cream on anyway and I have no scars at all.

As Brian mentioned, she should be eating as much as she wants now. Dont worry about calories. Her taste most probably will change and eating may become very difficult. So she should eat everythingnow and have no regrets or cravings later.

Hope this helps. So much to do before all this starts.