Fifty years ago, chemotherapy was considered a last-ditch effort in the ultimately Sisyphean task of fighting off cancer. Today, chemotherapy is viewed as one of the most useful tools in cancer treatment, and reactions to its use vary.
The Facts
The term chemotherapy refers to the use of drugs to treat disease. Although this can refer to any type of drug treatment, it is most often used in reference to drug treatment for cancer. The drugs used in chemotherapy combat cancer cells by spreading in a similar pattern, through the blood stream, and interfering with the cancer cells' ability to grow and spread.
Types
Chemotherapy can be administered through pills, needles or tubes, applied locally to one specific cancer-affected area or systemically through the body. It can be used in conjunction with other drugs (combination chemotherapy), used with radiation therapy and surgery (modality treatment), or used to cells left after surgery or radiation therapy (adjuvant chemotherapy).
Benefits
The primary benefit of chemotherapy is a reduction and elimination of cancer cells within the body. In addition, chemotherapy can aid in remission of cancer, hamper the spreading of cancer cells and augment the effects of radiation treatment.
Side Effects
Unfortunately, the nature of chemotherapy drugs can cause negative side effects. The exact side effect depends on the type of drug or drugs used, but generally fatigue or hair loss can occur, accompanied by vomiting and nausea. In addition, chemotherapy can affect bone marrow and thus white blood cell count. Without these cells, a patient is at higher risk for infection. Side effects of chemotherapy drop off when treatment stops.
Prevention/Solution
Varying methods are available to cope with the negative side effects of chemotherapy. The higher risk of infection during chemotherapy can be combated by using basic hygienic practices, such as washing your hands often. Eating right also helps the body cope with the stress of chemotherapy. In addition, drugs are available to help with the nausea and vomiting. Finally, support groups are available for the psychological stress that often accompanies chemotherapy.
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