What is Chemotherapy ?

Chemotherapy is medication that attacks cancer cells. It can be also given after surgery, or on its own. It's also used to help prevent cancer from returning anywhere in your body. Depending on the nature and extent of the disease your oncologist will decide if Chemotherapy is right for you.

How does Chemotherapy work ?

Chemotherapy is designed to kill cancer cells. This medication is a kind of systematic therapy. It travels in the bloodstream throughout your body. Chemotherapy stops the cycle of cancer cells. Then the cancer cells die.

How is Chemotherapy given ?

Chemotherapy is mostly an out patient treatment. It may be given at your doctor's clinic or at the hospital. The length of each treatment may differ. It'll depend on whether you take the medication in pill form or through an IV (Intravenous) line, or both. Your treatment may be given every 21 or 28 days (a cycle). Chemotherapy treatments given by IV may last up to 4 hours, depending on the medications used. Between treatments, your body has a chance to recover. The course of treatment often lasts 3 to 6 months.

Will there be any form of side effects ?

While helping your body fight cancer, chemotherapy can also cause side effects. These may include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, mouth sores, hair loss and an increased risk of infection. Tell your healthcare provider if you have side effects. Special medications may control them.

Why will I have these side effects ?

Chemotherapy attacks the cancer cells in your body. But treatment may also affect normal cells. The cells in your blood, digestive system, and hair follicles are most at risk. Damage to these cells causes side effects. You can manage side effects to stay more comfortable during treatment.

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