Protect Your Heart Health During Cancer Treatment

• Cancer treatments can offer hope and healing—but they often come with side effects, such as fatigue or nausea. And, in some cases, cancer treatment can also affect the heart.

  Certain types of chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy can lead to issues such as:  

  • High blood pressure
  • Abnormal heart rhythms
  • A weakened heart muscle
  • Coronary artery disease

  These problems can develop while treatment is happening or years later.  

  Your risk depends on the type of treatment you receive and how much of it you receive. Your heart health prior to starting treatment matters too.  

  The chance for heart problems is higher for people who:

  • Have other cardiovascular risk factors
  • Had a heart problem before treatment
  • Receive several treatments at the same time

  That said, there are things that every patient can do to keep their heart in the best possible shape during treatment and down the road. Here are some to keep in mind.  

  Ask your care team how treatment might affect your heart.

  If your treatment comes with a chance for heart-related problems, you can work together to lower your risk. For instance, you may undergo tests before and during treatment to monitor your heart function. If you do experience heart problems, you and your care team can discuss changing treatments to protect your heart.  

  Stay active during and after treatment.

  Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for controlling heart disease risk factors, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being overweight, and diabetes. It helps keep your heart muscle healthy and strong too. Your care team can help you decide on the kinds of exercises that are safe for you.  

  Eat a heart-healthy diet.

  Choose more fresh fruits and vegetables; whole grains; and lean proteins, like lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and low-fat dairy products. A healthy eating pattern helps protect your heart while supporting healthy weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

  Pay attention to your sodium intake, too, especially if your doctor recommends following a low-salt diet. Too much salt causes your body to hang on to extra fluids, which can worsen existing heart problems.  

  Take steps to reduce stress.

  It may be easier said than done when you're going through cancer treatment. But finding ways to manage your emotions can help protect your heart (as well as your mental health). Unchecked stress can raise your blood pressure and may lead to unhealthy coping habits, like overeating, drinking alcohol, or smoking. It can also worsen symptoms of an existing heart condition.  

  Avoid alcohol.

  Drinking is tied to an increased risk for heart problems, like high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. Over time, it can also damage the heart muscle.  

  Recognize heart-related red flags.

  Alert your care team of signs of a possible heart problem. These include:  

  • Chest pain
  • Increased coughing
  • Trouble breathing (especially at night)
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Swelling in the legs

  And remember: If you experience symptoms of a possible heart attack—such as chest pain or tightness that doesn’t go away—don’t wait. Call 911 right away.

  Get support for your heart health.  

  Fox Chase Cancer Center’s specialized, multidisciplinary approach helps you care for your heart—and feel your best overall both during and after treatment. That includes our Survivorship Program, which offers dedicated health support once you've completed your treatment.