Chemotherapy is the use of chemicals (or drugs) to treat diseases, most commonly cancer. Cancer cells are abnormal cells that divide and grow rapidly, creating tumors. Chemotherapy agents target these rapidly dividing cells and interfere with cell division and reproduction, therefore killing cells and reducing or eliminating the tumors. Chemotherapy is delivered systemically, meaning it is introduced into the bloodstream and travels throughout the body. This means that normal, healthy cells also come into contact with the drugs and can be affected by them, creating a variety of unwanted side effects.
Digestive
The cells lining the digestive tract and intestines are rapidly dividing cells, making them susceptible to attack by chemotherapy agents. As these normal cells die, the digestive tract becomes irritated, triggering the most common side effects of nausea and vomiting.
The nausea and vomiting can also be triggered by the onset of constipation, which, according to the American Cancer Society, is experienced by about half of all chemotherapy patients. An obstruction or delay in emptying of the bowels can trigger the vomiting center of the brain.
The irritation to the lining of the small intestine can also cause diarrhea. The American Cancer Society estimates that three out of four patients on chemotherapy will experience diarrhea during their treatment.
Bone Marrow Suppression
Bone marrow is the thick liquid found inside the bones. This liquid is full of cells that are constantly growing and multiplying, which is why it is susceptible to attack by the chemotherapy. Bone marrow performs vital functions, as it is where all the blood cells, including red cells, white cells and platelets, are continually produced. When the chemotherapy damages the bone marrow, the blood cells cannot be produced, which leads to a variety of problems.
White blood cells are the body's first line of defense against infections. When the white blood cell count is low, the risk of infection is high.
Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. When red blood cells are low--a condition called anemia--you may experience fatigue, irritability, headaches, dizziness, low blood pressure and an increase in respiratory rate.
Platelets are responsible for clotting the blood. If the platelet count is low, even minor cuts or scrapes can be dangerous, as they can bleed uncontrollably.
Fatigue
Fatigue, the feeling of extreme tiredness that does not subside even after rest, is one of the most debilitating side effects of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can cause a loss of red blood cells, dehydration and loss of appetite, all of which contribute to the fatigue.
Hair Loss
Hair loss, medically called alopecia, is one of the most feared side effects of chemotherapy. Hair loss occurs because the cells in the hair follicles are rapidly dividing cells, making them vulnerable to attack by chemotherapy agents.
Severe Side Effects
Chemotherapy can cause many other side effects, some of which can be severe or even permanent. The specific side effects for each patient will depend on the chemotherapy agent administered and the overall health of the patient. Other possible severe side effects include damage to the heart, lungs, liver or reproductive system; central nervous system damage; urinary system damage; and changes in cognitive functions.
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