Chemotherapy isa drug treatment that helps prevent the spread of cancer and/or kills the cancer cells. There are over 100 different chemotherapy drugs. The specific chemo drug used is determined by the type, stage and location of the cancer. Durations of chemo treatment also depend on the same factors. Unfortunately, in an effort to kill the cancer cells, chemo can also kill healthy cells and cause numerous side effects.
Pain
Pain is a common side effect of chemotherapy as the body goes through a radical change. Muscles and joints become sore, and the nerves can cause tingly, painful and numb sensations throughout the body. If the pain becomes chronic and unmanageable, the National Cancer Institute recommends you contact your doctor and discuss possible treatments for pain relief like massage therapy, pain meds or acupuncture.
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is a direct result of the nausea and vomiting that stems from the chemotherapy treatment. The NCI recommends eating smaller meals, drink plenty of fluids and try liquid meals like fruit smoothies, milk shakes or soups.
Gastrointestinal
Chemotherapy can lead to several gastrointestinal problems like constipation or diarrhea. Constipation is when bowel movements become less frequent, painful or difficult to pass. It's important to eat foods high in fiber, like fruits and vegetables, and to drink at least 8 cups of water per day. The NCI also recommends if you have diarrhea to eat five to six small meals and drink more fluids per day. Also, avoid eating foods that can make the diarrhea worse like dairy products.
Hair Loss
Chemotherapy causes a condition known as alopecia, which is the loss of hair. Chemotherapy can destroy the healthy hair cells that grow during the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. Hair loss is experienced all over the body within the first few weeks of treatment.
Anemia
Anemia is the condition where there aren't enough healthy red blood cells to carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body. Chemotherapy can destroy healthy red blood cells thus causing the anemia. Anemia has the following symptoms: weakness, increased fatigue, dizziness, short of breath and an increased heart rate.
Other Side Effects
Other common side effects of chemotherapy treatments are loss of memory, swelling in joints, disruption in normal urination patterns, increased chances of infections and sexual changes in women like hot flashes and irregular menstrual cycles.
