1. There are Numerous Types of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy simply means medical therapy using chemicals. The word is usually used in association with cancer therapy, however. Most chemotherapy drugs work by interfering with cell division that limits the growth of cancer. Other types work to kill cancer cells by harming the cellular membranes. And those used for hormonal cancers, such as Tamoxifen for breast cancer, may work by blocking hormonal activity in the body.
2. Chemotherapy Interferes with Cell Division
Many chemotherapeutic agents interfere with cell division by halting mitosis. Mitosis is the process whereby individual cells divide. The chromosomes in the cell line up, double themselves and get pulled apart to opposite poles of the cells. Since cancer cells are so rapidly dividing, these drugs interfere with cancer cells first and the more slowly dividing cells of the healthy body more slowly. The reason why many people experience hair loss while undergoing chemotherapy is because hair follicles also divide extremely rapidly, thus hair growth is affected.
3. Chemotherapy Kills Cancer by Oxidizing Cell Membranes
Other chemotherapy agents work by damaging cellular membranes through oxidative damage. As many cancer cells have slightly different metabolic systems than other body cells, drugs targeted at overpowering cancer cells with metabolic stress may also suppress them. For this reason, some oncologists discourage the use of anti-oxidant supplements while undergoing chemotherapy.
4. Adriamycin Used for Breast Cancer Causes Heart Damage
Adriamycin is a leading drug used for breast cancer and is usually administered by an IV. Adriamycin is very hard on the blood vessels and some patients develop inflammation at the site of the IV, and long-term consequences include damage to the heart muscle itself. Hawthorne berries from crataegus trees are safe and useful for protecting the heart and blood vessels from muscle damage.
5. Protecting Yourself While Undergoing Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be hard on the stomach. You can get some relief by sipping mint and chamomile teas throughout the day. Chemotherapy can zap your strength and energy. That's normal and what your body needs to recover. Try to clear your schedule and allow yourself to nap as needed, read in bed, listen to books on tape while doing gentle stretches, and sleep all you want.
