Chemotherapy and Cancer
The disease known as cancer comes in many forms, but one of the main treatments for many of them is that of chemotherapy. As with most cancers, there is always the propensity for cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body outside of the initially affected region.
Essentially, the treatment utilises drugs in order to slow the growth of cancer cells, eliminate them, and curb the spread. Chemotherapy can also be used to alleviate symptoms caused by the disease.
Administering Chemotherapy
In the event that medical professionals have recommended chemotherapy as a treatment, it is important for patients to understand how the treatment can be administered.
There is the option of oral tablets or capsules, as well as applications on the skin itself in some cases. The more commonly seen avenues include injections or IV drips directly to the skin, muscle, or spinal cord, as well as catheterisation into the chest or bladder.
Frequency of Chemotherapy
Depending on the individual as well as the recommended regimen, the treatment cycles can take place daily, weekly, or even monthly. Patients will require a period of rest in between treatments, which allows new cells to be regenerated in order to replace those affected by previous chemotherapy drugs.
The length of the entire chemotherapy treatment comes down to the type of cancer that is being treated. The goal of the treatment, drugs used, as well as the response of the cancer cells will also affect the length. Side effects that may arise are also critical.
As for the duration of a session, it could take hours, particularly if your treatment is delivered via IV drip.
Chemotherapy Side Effects
There is no escaping the fact that chemotherapy may cause side effects in certain patients, and this is down to the different drugs that may be part of the process. While many side effects are temporary and can be minimised or prevented entirely, being prepared will allow patients to better deal with the aftermath of chemotherapy.
The use of drugs may affect other normal, healthy cells such as bone marrow cells, those found in the digestive tract, or even your hair follicles during the treatment. However, once chemotherapy is over, most healthy cells tend to recover quickly.
Managing Side Effects of Chemotherapy
- Fever and Infection
- Reduction of white blood cells may lead to infections
- Seek medical help if high fever develops or symptoms of infections (eg. chills, cough or sore throat) begin showing
- Practice good personal hygiene whenever possible
- Mouth Dryness
- Avoid drinks that cause dehydration, such as coffee and alcohol
- Sip water frequently and maintain good oral hygiene
- Rinse mouth after meals with a solution made of salt and baking soda to prevent infections (do not use mouthwashes that contain alcohol as those will make the mouth drier)
- Loss of Appetite
- Eat several small meals packed with nutrient-dense foods throughout the day
- Avoid drinking too much fluid at mealtime
- Nausea & Vomiting
- Anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medication will help
- Avoid taking heavy meals just before chemotherapy
- Constipation
- Not being physically active can increase the risk of constipation
- Drink more fluids and engage in light exercises if possible
- Include high-fibre foods into diet eg. whole grains, fruit, vegetables. Consult your doctor for the best advice
- Hair Loss
- Consider a shorter hairstyle or opt for hats, wigs or scarves
- Use a mild shampoo and be gentle when washing your hair
- Share your concerns with loved ones or a counsellor if you are feeling mentally affected
- Fatigue
- Factors such as low blood counts, nutritional problems or lack of sleep can contribute to fatigue
- Change your lifestyle and diet, and reduce your workload
- Reading, listening to music or meditating can also help
- Sleep adequately
- Check in with your doctor or nurses regularly
- Pain
- Can be successfully controlled with medication
- Take pain medication as prescribed
- Seek medical attention promptly when the pain worsens or becomes unbearable
Supporting a Loved One Undergoing Chemotherapy
The treatment journey is not going to be easy, but patients can have an easier time with the help of loved ones and friends. Here are some useful ways in which you can show your support:
- Accompany patients to appointments
- Provide moral and emotional support
- Learn about the illness and treatment
- Lend a listening ear
- Join them in their new eating preferences
- Make necessary household adjustments eg. house chores, fetching the children, etc.
You Are Not Alone
A supportive network is very important, and for everyone affected by the disease, knowing you are not alone can be of great help. Reach out to your loved ones, show your care and concern more readily for those undergoing chemotherapy, and we can all overcome the disease together!
