Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a cancer-curing treatment used as medicine to kill cancer cells.
Different types of chemotherapy are available, and they all work similarly. They terminate cancer cells from reproducing, preventing them from growing and spreading all over the body.
How does chemotherapy work in the body?
Chemotherapy travels all over the body through the bloodstream.
Chemotherapy kills cells that are in the stage of
splitting into two compartments. The cell dividing process happens in everybody. In cancer patients, this process occurs regularly, forming a mass of cells. This mass cell forms into a lump, creating a tumor; thus, chemotherapy kills this abnormal cell division.
Why does chemotherapy contribute to side effects?
Chemotherapy terminates cell multiplying, resulting in all cells malfunctioning.
Areas that are affected most are:
- Hair
- Skin
- Blood
General side effects of chemotherapy;
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Hair loss
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Anemia
- Constipation
- Neuropathy
- Memory problems
- Skin changes
The use of chemotherapy
Usage of chemotherapy includes:
- Chemotherapy may be employed, If cancer has spread or there is any chance.
- To increase the effectiveness of other therapies, such as radiotherapy, or to try to cure cancer (curative chemotherapy)
- Decrease the likelihood that cancer may return after radiation or surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy)
- In the absence of a cure, treat the symptoms (palliative chemotherapy)
Chemotherapy varies significantly in its efficacy. Inquire with your doctors about your possibilities of responding well to therapy.
Forms of chemotherapy
The administrative form of chemotherapy depends solely upon the physician.
The Doctor might suggest;
- Chemotherapy injected through veins – usually admitted in a hospital
- Chemotherapy tablets- self-administration, with frequent check-ups in hospital
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022