Chemotherapy often brings visions of uncomfortable side effects and sterile hospital rooms to mind. Treatment for cancer using chemo varies based on the type and severity of cancer. Side effects are now better managed and occasionally treatment can occur in the privacy of your own home, according to the National Cancer Institute. Knowing what to expect and how to manage your physical and emotional side effects can put your body in position for recovery.
Function
Chemotherapy is a term for medication used to kill rapidly growing cancer cells. Chemotherapy can also destroy healthy, normally growing cells. A systemic treatment, chemo travels throughout the body and can target cells in different areas. The National Cancer Institute states that chemotherapy can cure cancer and control or manage its symptoms as part of palliative care.
Types
Chemotherapy forms include intravenous or IV, pills, creams and injections. Your doctor will determine which form is right for you based on the type of cancer you have, the treatments you have received in the past and other medical conditions you may be managing. You'll generally receive chemotherapy in cycles with a rest periods in between to give your healthy cells time to regenerate. A treatment plan will account for the type of cancer and level of advancement.
Side Effects
The severity and types of side effects related to chemotherapy vary significantly from patient to patient. Medications and treatments are available to prevent side effects. Common side effects include anemia, fatigue, hair loss, bruising, bleeding, infection, nausea and vomiting, according to the American Cancer Society. While some side effects go away quickly, others may take months or years as cells need time to regenerate. Occasionally, side effects are permanent.
Considerations
Chemotherapy may affect cognitive brain function for up to 10 years following treatment, according to the American Cancer Society. Patients that report this side effect, often deemed chemo-brain or chemo-fog, complain of changes in their level of concentration and memory. Unfortunately, there are no treatments to prevent or improve this problem. Chemotherapy can bring a wide range of emotions to the forefront. You may feel sad, angry, worried and depressed. Treating your emotional side effects are just as important as treating the physical effects. Family, close friends and support groups can help.
Solutions
Side effects caused by chemotherapy can be managed by changes in diet and lifestyle. Problems with appetite, constipation and fatigue can alter quality of life. Enlist help with household responsibilities on the day of and the day after treatment to allow yourself to rest and recover from your treatment. Since the most common complaint is fatigue, according to the National Cancer Institute, arrange to have someone drive you to and from your treatment and to prepare your meals for a couple of days. Eating a well-balanced diet will help your body regenerate healthy cells and keep your risk of infection low.
References
- National Cancer Institute: Chemotherapy Side Effects Fact Sheets
- American Cancer Society: Understanding Chemotherapy: A Guide for Patients and Families
- CancerCare Connect: Understanding and Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects
- Geisinger Cancer Institute: Understanding Chemotherapy
- Chemotherapy.com: Treating Cancer With Chemotherapy
