Post by account_disabled on Feb 29, 2024 7:05:51 GMT -2
Patients undergoing cancer treatment may find themselves subject to a number of side effects of chemotherapy. Side effects often vary depending on the type of chemotherapy, and since each patient is different, each will experience individual differences. Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy Common side effects of chemotherapy may include: Fatigue Fatigue is the most common and depressing side effect of chemotherapy. Patients who experience fatigue due to chemotherapy describe it as distressing and say it permeates every aspect of their lives. Even sleep does not cure this condition, but the degree of fatigue will decrease until the next treatment. Hair Loss While fatigue is the most common, hair loss is often the first chemotherapy side effect that comes to mind. Chemotherapy drugs kill fast-growing cells typically seen in cancer, but also damage normal fast-growing cells.
Hair follicles are an example of fast-growing normal cells. It is Bank User Number Data impossible to know how much. Most often, hair loss begins a few weeks after treatment. Sensitivity of the scalp is normal and hair usually begins to regrow before treatment ends. The cooling cap can help reduce the risk of hair loss. A “cranial prosthesis” (wig) can help the patient with self-awareness about hair loss. Bruising and Bleeding The other type of fast-growing cells affected are blood platelets (cells that help stop bleeding). A lack of platelets leads to easy bruising and bleeding, a condition called thrombocytopenia. Although this is a common side effect of chemotherapy, it is still important to inform the treatment team about any bruising or bleeding and its severity. Chemotherapy Effects Infections With healthy cells caught in the crossfire of chemotherapy, infections are more common and potentially more life-threatening than before chemotherapy.
Fever is typically the first sign of infection. Patients should consult their doctor before treating with regular, over-the-counter medications. Common infection prevention measures are even more important for chemotherapy patients . These include: Washing hands thoroughly using warm soap and water (especially when handling food) avoiding large crowds and people with infections, fever, or flu Carry wipes and hand sanitizer to use after using handrails, counters, seating, tables and chairs in common areas Routine self-exams are also recommended to detect any abnormalities on the body, such as red spots or swelling. If the patient suspects an infection, he/she should inform his/her doctor immediately. Anemia Anemia (low red blood cell count) can be an overlooked side effect of chemotherapy because it progresses slowly. Symptoms of anemia include: Increased heart rate Shortness of breath trouble breathing dizziness chest pain Swelling pale skin Overstrain.
Hair follicles are an example of fast-growing normal cells. It is Bank User Number Data impossible to know how much. Most often, hair loss begins a few weeks after treatment. Sensitivity of the scalp is normal and hair usually begins to regrow before treatment ends. The cooling cap can help reduce the risk of hair loss. A “cranial prosthesis” (wig) can help the patient with self-awareness about hair loss. Bruising and Bleeding The other type of fast-growing cells affected are blood platelets (cells that help stop bleeding). A lack of platelets leads to easy bruising and bleeding, a condition called thrombocytopenia. Although this is a common side effect of chemotherapy, it is still important to inform the treatment team about any bruising or bleeding and its severity. Chemotherapy Effects Infections With healthy cells caught in the crossfire of chemotherapy, infections are more common and potentially more life-threatening than before chemotherapy.
Fever is typically the first sign of infection. Patients should consult their doctor before treating with regular, over-the-counter medications. Common infection prevention measures are even more important for chemotherapy patients . These include: Washing hands thoroughly using warm soap and water (especially when handling food) avoiding large crowds and people with infections, fever, or flu Carry wipes and hand sanitizer to use after using handrails, counters, seating, tables and chairs in common areas Routine self-exams are also recommended to detect any abnormalities on the body, such as red spots or swelling. If the patient suspects an infection, he/she should inform his/her doctor immediately. Anemia Anemia (low red blood cell count) can be an overlooked side effect of chemotherapy because it progresses slowly. Symptoms of anemia include: Increased heart rate Shortness of breath trouble breathing dizziness chest pain Swelling pale skin Overstrain.