Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy

It is a systemic treatment that works throughout the body to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with other cancer treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy.

How does chemotherapy work? Chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which includes cancer cells. These drugs work by interfering with the cancer cell's ability to divide and grow. Chemotherapy drugs can be given in various ways, including orally as a pill, injected into a vein, or applied topically. Types of chemotherapy drugs: There are many types of chemotherapy drugs, and combinations to achieve the best results. Some common chemotherapy drugs include: 1.Examples include cyclophosphamide and cisplatin. 2. Antimetabolites: These drugs interfere with the cancer cell's ability to make DNA, which also prevents them from dividing and growing. Examples include 5-fluorouracil and methotrexate. 3. Examples include etoposide and topotecan. 4. Anthracyclines: These drugs damage the DNA of cancer cells and also interfere with enzymes involved in DNA replication. Examples include doxorubicin and epirubicin. Chemotherapy drugs can also affect normal cells that divide rapidly, such as those in the bone marrow, hair follicles, and digestive tract. This leads to side effects like: 1. Fatigue: Chemotherapy can cause extreme tiredness and weakness. 2. Nausea and vomiting: Chemotherapy drugs can irritate the stomach lining, causing nausea and vomiting. 3. Hair loss: Chemotherapy drugs can damage hair follicles, leading to hair loss. 4. Increased risk of infection: Chemotherapy drugs can lower the number of white blood cells, increasing the risk of infection. 5. Anemia: Chemotherapy drugs can lower the number of red blood cells, causing anemia. 6. Mouth sores: Chemotherapy drugs can cause mouth sores and ulcers. 7. Skin changes: Chemotherapy drugs can cause skin and nail changes, such as dryness, peeling, and darkening. Managing side effects: There are several ways to manage chemotherapy side effects, including: 1. Medications: There are medications that can help manage nausea and vomiting, reduce the risk of infection, and increase red blood cell counts. 2. Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can all help manage chemotherapy side effects. 3.includes interventions like pain management, psychological support, and physical therapy. 4. Dose adjustments: Sometimes, the chemotherapy dose may need to reduce side effects. Conclusion: Chemotherapy is a powerful cancer treatment that can alone or in combination with other treatments. While it can cause side effects, It is essential to talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of chemotherapy, as well as any concerns you may have about side effects.