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Chemotherapy: All You Need to Know About the Side Effects

When you think of cancer treatment, you invariably think of chemotherapy. After all, chemotherapy is the most common form of treatment for most types of cancer. While cancer cells are known to mutate and grow very fast, chemotherapy drugs can kill them and keep the disease from spreading. However, while attacking the cancer cells, they also affect other normal, healthy cells, causing side effects. So, before you or a loved one start treatment, it is important to be aware of all possible side effects.

Side effects of Chemotherapy

Side effects depend on the type of chemo drug involved. 13 most common chemotherapy side effects are

1. Infection and a weakened immune system

Chemotherapy damages and kills the healthy cells in your body, along with the cancerous ones. This reduces the effectiveness of the immune system, making it weak, and increases the risk of developing infections. Eating healthy diet consisting of plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, washing hands frequently, avoiding anyone with an infectious illness, and seeking prompt medical care for signs of an infection can reduce the risk of a serious illness.

2. Loss of hair

Hair loss is yet another common chemotherapy side effects that you may experience. This is because chemotherapy can damage hair follicles, causing the hair to weaken, become brittle, and fall out. Any hair that regrows may be of a different texture or color. This usually continues until the treatment ends, after which hair almost always regrows. Though there is no guaranteed way to prevent it, but good hair care may slow the loss and promote regrowth.

3. Fatigue

Another common side effect of chemotherapy is fatigue. When undergoing chemotherapy treatment, you may experience extreme tiredness at all times or get easily exhausted by performing day-to-day activities. It is advisable to take adequate rest and avoid committing to effort-centric activities. Engaging in some forms of light exercise, like yoga, may help to enhance energy levels.

4. Neuropathy

The damage to peripheral nerves is called neuropathy and its symptoms include burning, prickling or numb sensations, which often affect hands and feet. In many instances, it has been observed that the symptoms of neuropathy worsen for individuals who take drugs included in their chemotherapy treatment.

5. Nausea and Vomiting

Following chemotherapy sessions, you may experience nausea and vomiting. This side effect can even appear few days after the session. Your doctor may prescribe you anti-nausea medicines to help alleviate your symptoms. Eating small portions of meals and avoiding specific types of food may also help.

6. Rash

Chemotherapy can alter the immune system in ways that cause rashes and other skin changes. Apart from this, the drugs can also trigger skin changes directly. Severe rashes can cause painful, intense itching and if a person scratches until their skin bleeds, there is a risk of infection. Applying moisturizing lotions and over-the-counter anti-itch creams may help.

7. Diarrhoea and constipation

Following your chemotherapy sessions, you may experience some digestive problems like diarrhoea and constipation. In order to tackle this, you can make some changes to your diet and ask your doctor for appropriate medicati on.

8. Fertility issues

Chemotherapy may cause fertility issues in both men and women. Also, while under chemotherapy treatment, you may also lose interest in intercourse. These types of side effects are generally temporary but have the risk of being permanent in some cases. So, make sure to consult with your oncologist about any fertility-related concerns before this form of cancer treatment begins.

9. Mouth sores

Some people develop painful oral sores 1-2 weeks after having some forms of chemotherapy. The soreness can vary in severity, and the sores may bleed or become infected. A person can try using non-abrasive toothpaste or a numbing gel to get some relief. Some people also find relief from rinsing their mouths with warm saltwater. Consult a doctor for treatment if any sores are very painful or weeping.

10. Breathing issues

Sometimes, chemotherapy can cause lung making it harder to take in enough oxygen. Breathing issues can also result from some types of cancer. If you experience breathing issues, along with chest pain, dizziness and speaking difficulties, then immediately inform your doctor. The doctor may prescribe medication if breathing problems continue. Staying calm, sitting and propping up the upper body with pillows, and practicing pursed lip breathing may help.

11. Blood disorders

Chemotherapy drugs affect the process of generation of new blood cells in the bone marrow. Hence, many cancer patients see their blood count dropping during treatment. This usually lasts only for the duration of treatment. However, not having enough RBCs can cause anaemia characterised by tiredness, shortness of breath and dizziness. If the WBC counts drop, then you may be more susceptible to infections. Not having enough platelets can affect the blood's ability to clot and hence, you may bruise and bleed more easily. The doctor may adjust the drug dosage or prescribe medication to manage these side effects.

12. Cognitive issues

As a cancer patient, you may find that the treatment makes it harder for you to concentrate on tasks and you may also find it difficult to think clearly or remember things. This is usually temporary and lasts only for the duration of the treatment. Anxiety and stress can worsen 'chemo brain'. Your reflexes may become slower than usual, and you may experience tingling sensations in your fingers and toes. Hence, try to relax and find ways to deal with stress.

13. Increased risk of fractures

The drugs administered to treat cancer can accelerate the loss of bone mass. They may also affect a woman's ovaries and lower oestrogen production. This too can contribute to bone loss. As a result, cancer patients may have a higher risk of fracturing bones and developing other musculoskeletal disorders. The most common bones to be affected are the wrists, hips and spine. To strengthen your bones, take a vitamin D supplement and calcium rich diet after consulting the doctor.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy can be an effective treatment for cancer, but it can also have adverse effects. Before starting the treatment, speak with the doctor about possible side effects, how long they might last, and how severe they might be. If side effects occur, the cancer care team may be able to help manage them. Treatments and coping techniques can ease and relieve many chemotherapy side effects.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner .

Source: Healthline, MedicalNewsToday, Cancer.net

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on August 24, 2022