Even though chemotherapy and radiation kill damaged cancer cells in the body, they also kill healthy cells along the way, creating a variety of side effects. According to the American Cancer Society, side effects from cancer treatments vary depending on the type of drug given and the amount and place where the radiation is applied. Cancer treatment side effects vary from person to person and depend on the type and severity of the cancer and the overall health of the patient.
Hair Loss
While not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss, or alopecia, most patients do experience some level of hair loss during treatment. Hair follicles may be affected on the head, under the arms and on legs, pubic areas and the chest. Hair loss from radiation only occurs at the site exposed to the radiation. Hair loss is gradual with chemotherapy; it usually doesn't begin falling out until after the first couple of treatments.
Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of both chemotherapy and radiation. Fatigue is a tiredness that no amount of sleep or rest can relieve. Chemotherapy patients find the fatigue stronger and more pervasive at the beginning of the treatment. Symptoms tend to lessen as the body become accustomed to the drugs and often diminishes greatly by the end of the treatment. Radiation, on the other hand, tends to worsen as the treatment continues. Stress and anxiety about the treatment and worries about the future can exacerbate fatigue and make it more unmanageable.
Low Blood Cell Count
Important white blood cells may be compromised by radiation, though low blood platelet counts are more likely to result from chemotherapy. White blood cells protect the body from infection and prevent excessive bleeding. Radiation usually is discontinued when blood tests reveal a low count. Chemotherapy destroys cells in the bone marrow where white blood cells are made. Doctors may lower the dosage of chemotherapy drugs if while blood cells become too low. Patients are encouraged to take extra precautions to avoid infections while undergoing chemotherapy.
Skin Problems
Skin problems are common with both chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Many patients develop red, dry, peeling patches and acne while taking chemotherapy drugs. The skin that receives the radiation rays usually becomes red and irritated and acts like a sunburn. Most skin problems are mostly irritating and do go away when treatments are stopped. Patients are encouraged to use creams and lotions on irritated skin and avoid long, hot baths that can aggravate dry skin.
Irregular Digestion
Direct radiation to the neck, head or stomach can cause irregular digestion, resulting in diarrhea or constipation. Chemotherapy usually affects the lining walls of the stomach and almost always results in some form of irregular digestion, varying from nausea to constipation and diarrhea. While patients often lose interest in eating because of the digestive side effects, doctors at the National Cancer Institute recommend finding ways to eat that can be more comfortable because patients who eat well have a better chance of recovery.
