Patients’ Experiences With Complementary and Alternative Treatments to Manage Chemotherapy Symptoms

Abstract

This phenomenological study aims to explore the experiences of individuals undergoing chemotherapy, focusing on their symptoms and the use of complementary and alternative treatments to cope with these challenges. Thirteen individuals diagnosed with cancer in a city in the central region of Turkey were interviewed using a semi-structured, in-depth approach in this phenomenological study. The criterion sampling method was employed to select participants, and interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. Thematic analysis was applied to the audio-recorded and transcribed interviews. The study adhered to the COREQ checklist for reporting qualitative research. The data analysis revealed 2 main categories (effects of cancer and chemotherapy on individuals, the use of complementary and alternative treatments to cope with the symptoms of patients receiving chemotherapy) and 6 themes (psychological effects, social impacts, physical effects, social practices, psychological practices, and physical practices). The study demonstrated that individuals faced significant psychological, physical, and social challenges due to cancer, posing difficulties in coping. The symptoms had a substantial negative impact on individuals. The research identified the use of various alternative methods, such as yoga, the Mediterranean diet, and music therapy, as coping strategies. It is recommended that individuals undergoing chemotherapy explore complementary and alternative treatment methods to effectively manage symptoms.