One of the most effective forms of treatment for cancer is chemotherapy. The use of chemotherapy to treat various types of cancers has increased over the past couple of decades. This treatment has shown undeniable results in curing cancer and preventing it from returning. Chemotherapy is now included in part of complete treatment plans to combat cancers, which may include radiation therapy and surgery.

It is no secret that chemotherapy can sometimes have adverse effects on patients. But it must be understood that doctors only recommend chemotherapy when they believe that the benefits will outweigh side effects.

What is Chemotherapy and what does it do?

Chemotherapy is a single medicine or a combination of medication that is given to cancer patients to kill cancer cells and prevent them from coming back. These drugs focus on cancer cells and affect their abilities to divide and multiply. Chemotherapy also targets the cancer cells’ source of nutrition and triggers the death of these cells. Chemotherapy drugs are also used to shrink the size of tumours before surgery.

Chemotherapy is also given to cancer patients following remission or surgery as it helps prevent a recurrence. It slows down the progress of diseases and reduces their symptoms during later stages where a cure is not viable.

What to expect from Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is an invasive type of treatment that can have severe adverse effects on the patient. This is due to the fact that chemotherapy drugs target both healthy and cancerous cells. The treatment course depends on the patient’s condition and the type and stage of cancer. Chemotherapy medication can be administered orally, intravenously or topically.

The most common side effects associated with chemotherapy treatment are:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Flaky and brittle nails
  • Fatigue
  • Infections due to weakened immune system
  • Anaemia
  • Loss of appetite
  • Mental health problems such as depression and mood swings

Consult your local oncologist for more details on chemotherapy and its benefits.

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