Cold capping helps Fall River chemo patients keep their hair: ‘It's a dream come true’

Introduction

For cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, one of the most dreaded side effects is hair loss. However, thanks to a revolutionary technology known as cold capping, patients battling cancer at Southcoast Health in Fall River are now able to keep their hair intact, significantly improving their quality of life.

What is Cold Capping?

Cold capping, also referred to as scalp cooling, is a treatment designed to minimize the amount of chemotherapy that reaches the hair follicles on the scalp, thereby reducing the likelihood of hair loss. This innovative technique involves wearing a specialized cooling cap that lowers the temperature of the scalp, causing the blood vessels in the area to constrict. As a result, less chemotherapy reaches the hair follicles, potentially preventing or reducing significant hair loss.

How Does it Work?

The process of cold capping is straightforward and non-invasive. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Preparation: Before each chemotherapy session, the patient is fitted with a cooling cap. The cap is designed to fit snugly around the hairline, ensuring there are no gaps between the cap and the scalp. Patients are advised to practice putting on the cap a few times before treatment to get comfortable with it.

2. Application: The patient wears the cooling cap for about 30 minutes before chemotherapy begins. During chemotherapy, the cap remains in place for the duration of the treatment. After chemotherapy, the cap is kept on for an additional 30 to 90 minutes to continue cooling the scalp.

3. Comfort Measures: To manage the cold sensation, patients are encouraged to bring items like cotton or polyester headbands, towels, and warm clothing. These items help protect the forehead and keep the body warmer during the procedure.

Benefits

Cold capping offers several benefits for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy:

• Psychological Impact: Losing one’s hair can be emotionally challenging, particularly for those with long hair. By preserving their hair, patients experience a significant boost in self-esteem and confidence.

• Practical Advantages: Many people rely on their hair for work or personal reasons. Keeping one’s hair intact allows patients to maintain their daily routines without the added stress of dealing with hair loss.

• Comfort: The reduced need for wigs, hats, or other head coverings makes everyday activities more comfortable for patients.

Success Stories

Patients at Southcoast Health have been praising the effectiveness of cold capping. Many have reported feeling more confident and less anxious about their treatment sessions.

A Patient's Perspective

"I had been dreading the thought of losing my hair during my chemotherapy treatment, but after trying cold capping, it was like a dream come true. I was able to keep most of my hair, and it made such a big difference in my mental state. It’s not just about looks; it’s about feeling like myself again," said one patient, who wished to remain anonymous.

Availability and Accessibility

While cold capping is a widely recognized and FDA-approved treatment, not all chemotherapy centers offer it. Southcoast Health is proud to be among the institutions that provide this service to their patients. The cooling caps, which come in two sections (an inner cap and an outer cover), are attached to a system that circulates coolant liquid around the inner cap, reducing the temperature of the scalp and protecting the hair follicles.

Potential Side Effects

While cold capping is generally safe and effective, some patients may experience mild side effects such as:

• Chills
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Pruritus (severe itching)
• Sinus pain
• Skin tissue disorders
• Skin ulceration
• Paresthesia (an abnormal sensation such as tingling, tickling, pricking, numbness, or burning of the skin)

These side effects are typically temporary and manageable, and patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare team.

Financial Assistance

For those who cannot afford the cost of cold capping, there are several resources available. Non-profit organizations like The Rapunzel Project and HairToStay provide financial assistance to help low-income families pay for scalp cooling treatment. Additionally, many state and local organizations offer financial assistance programs.

Conclusion

Cold capping is a game-changer for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, offering a practical and psychological boost in an already challenging time. By reducing the risk of hair loss, this technology improves patients' overall well-being and confidence. At Southcoast Health, the commitment to providing comprehensive care includes offering scalp cooling services to those who are a good fit. This initiative underscores the institution's dedication to making every aspect of treatment as smooth and supportive as possible.

For more information on cold capping and its availability, you can visit the websites of organizations such as The Rapunzel Project or Dignitana, the manufacturer of the DigniCap system, which is another FDA-approved scalp cooling device.

By embracing this technology, Southcoast Health is helping cancer patients in Fall River keep their hair—and their dignity—during a difficult journey.

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References:

• Paxman Scalp Cooling System: A Guide to Scalp Cooling. [PDF] Available at: https://www.uhn.ca/PatientsFamilies/Health_Information/Health_Topics/Documents/Chemo_Hair_Loss_A_Guide_to_Scalp_Cooling.pdf
• DigniCap Scalp Cooling System: Locations US Map. Available at: https://dignicap.com/locations-us-map/
• Cold Caps and Scalp Cooling: Cancer.org. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/hair-skin-nails/hair-loss/cold-caps.html
• Scalp Cooling at Southcoast Health: Chemotherapy Fall River & Fairhaven MA. Available at: https://www.southcoast.org/services/cancer-care/chemotherapy-drug-therapy/
• Freezers & DigniCap Locations: The Rapunzel Project. Available at: http://www.rapunzelproject.org/ColdCaps/Locations.aspx