Chemotherapy Near MeMarlton, NJ

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Side effects of chemotherapy tend to be a major concern for patients. However, side effects vary from patient to patient depending on their current health, the size of cancer cells, amount of cancer cells in the body, and how well their body responds to treatment. Side effects can appear as soon as chemotherapy begins or present themselves weeks or months later.

Common side effects that may result from chemotherapy include any combination of the following:

• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Infection
• Anemia (low red blood cell counts)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Appetite changes
• Constipation and diarrhea
• Mouth, tongue, and throat problems such as sores and pain with swallowing
• Peripheral neuropathy or other nerve problems, such as numbness, tingling, and pain
• Skin and nail changes such as dry skin and color change
• Urine and bladder changes and kidney problems
• Weight changes
• Chemo brain, which can affect concentration and focus
• Mood changes
• Changes in libido and sexual function
• Fertility problems

What to Expect Before and After Chemotherapy

It is a good idea to prepare prior to the first chemotherapy session by asking questions and listening to the oncologist, as they will often try to demystify the unknowns and clarify the myths. We suggest eating well-balanced meals prior to chemotherapy sessions and stocking up on healthy foods for after treatment. Many patients like to bring a bag to their sessions that includes a notebook, puzzles, books, or devices to keep them busy.

After each session, patients need to make sure they listen to their bodies. We suggest not working for the first few days to allow the body to rest and recover. Drink and eat as much as the body allows to avoid dehydration. It is important that patients avoid wearing anything containing chemotherapy fluid (as the body rids itself of the chemicals in the first 48 hours). We will inform the patient of ways to avoid and get rid of soiled items. Lastly, we suggest keeping a journal to document the journey and progress of the treatment. Many patients find that it brings a sense of peace knowing each session brings them closer to recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chemotherapy

Does chemotherapy hurt?

Chemotherapy should not cause any pain during the treatment itself. Patients who are experiencing any pain should tell the nurse immediately to check the IV. Pain and discomfort may result after treatment as the chemicals stay in the body for about 48 hours.

How long will my treatments last?

Chemotherapy is often done in several cycles, with each cycle consisting of multiple treatment sessions. The amount of cycles and sessions depends on each patient’s case and stage of treatment. This will be discussed prior to beginning chemotherapy and is often altered throughout the patient’s treatment as progress is monitored.

What is the duration of each chemotherapy session?

Chemotherapy session duration and frequency varies for each patient depending on their treatment plan and target. Some sessions are as short as 30 minutes, while others may last for three to four hours. The frequency of sessions will depend on how the patient’s treatment is going.

How will I know if chemotherapy is working?

Cancer treatment is continuously monitored. We will take MRIs and CT scans to detect cancer cells and assess the size of tumors. Responses to chemotherapy are usually defined as complete response, partial response, stable disease, or disease progression. Complete response refers to the absence of cancer cells; partial response describes cancer cells that have shrunk but are still evident in the body; stable disease refers to cancer cells staying the same; disease progression means the cancer has grown.

Are side effects reversible after treatment?

Many side effects of chemotherapy are short-term and reversible. Our bodies’ normal tissues repair themselves rather quickly. Some side effects may not reverse themselves right away, such as changes in the brain or mind (memory and concentration). It is important to keep your doctor informed about any changes or concerns in your recovery period and continue with routine physical check-ups and lab work to ensure the body is functioning properly.