Chemotherapy is a medical approach that utilises drugs to eliminate and combat cancer cells. While there are numerous chemotherapy drugs, all share a common mechanism—they inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Throughout the course of chemotherapy, individuals may encounter unpleasant side effects. Fortunately, many of these side effects can be effectively treated or prevented. It's important to note that the majority of these discomforts tend to diminish once the chemotherapy treatment concludes.
While a list of chemotherapy side effects is provided here, experiencing all of them is unlikely.
Chemotherapy Side Effects
1. Tiredness
Fatigue stands out as one of the prevalent side effects often associated with chemotherapy, with many individuals finding themselves tired most of the time or even while performing regular tasks.
Seeking support can be beneficial.
- Make sure to get enough rest.
- Avoid difficult tasks.
- Include light exercises like walking or yoga in routine.
- Reach out to friends and family for support with everyday tasks.
If experiencing sudden fatigue and difficulty breathing, contact the care team, as it could signal anaemia.
2. Experiencing illness
During chemotherapy, individuals may experience nausea or vomiting, which are controlled with anti-sickness medication. For pain after chemotherapy, consult medical professionals for suitable relief.
You can find this product in different formats:
- pills you can swallow
- tablets that dissolve in the mouth
- shots given in veins
- a patch to place on the skin
Anti-sickness medicine may lead to mouth and throat sores, constipation, indigestion, insomnia and headaches. If it's not effective or causes excessive side effects, inform the care team and explore alternative options.
3. Hair Loss after Chemotherapy
Hair loss after chemotherapy is very common. Discuss with the medical team to understand if it's an expected side effect. It typically starts a few weeks after treatment, affecting the head and other areas. The loss is temporary, with regrowth expected shortly after treatment, sometimes with a slight difference in colour or texture.
4. Infections
Chemotherapy weakens defences, heightening infection risk. Taking precautions to protect against infections is wise.
5. Anaemia
The amount of red blood cells essential for oxygen transport falls by chemotherapy, resulting in anaemia. The doses of chemotherapy are frequently adjusted to prevent occurrences of low blood counts, ensuring better management of treatment side effects.
Conclusion
While chemotherapy is a crucial tool in the fight against cancer, it often comes with challenging side effects. Seeking support, communicating with medical teams and taking preventive measures can significantly improve the overall well-being of patients. Besides, looking into alternative therapies or making lifestyle tweaks with guidance can boost the quality of life. It's essential for individuals to consider health insurance as a valuable resource, ensuring access to necessary treatments and support throughout their cancer journey.
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