Full Answer
When are the side effects of chemo treatments too dangerous?
Sometimes, though, side effects can become too dangerous to keep up the treatment. Some chemo can cause very low levels of blood cells and raise your chance of having an infection. You could also have an allergic reaction to a specific drug. In these cases, your doctor might suggest spacing out your sessions or trying a different medication.
Can I stop chemotherapy?
A person may wish to stop chemotherapy for a while or altogether. This may be because of adverse side effects, because the treatment seems to be ineffective, or for other reasons. Anyone who is considering stopping should speak with their doctor first. They will describe the possible next steps and help the person make the right decision.
How does chemotherapy affect our quality of life?
“The finding that the quality of life was impaired with receipt of the toxic chemotherapy was not surprising. The surprising part was that people who were feeling the best at the start of the therapy ended up feeling the worst. They are the ones most harmed and who had the most to lose.”
What happens when cancer is not responding to chemotherapy?
Signs that a person’s cancer is not responding to chemotherapy include: cancer spreading to other areas of the body, a process called metastasis If any of these issues occur, the doctor may recommend other types of therapy.
Does chemo get worse as time goes on?
The effects of chemo are cumulative. They get worse with each cycle. My doctors warned me: Each infusion will get harder. Each cycle, expect to feel weaker.
Does chemo get worse before it gets better?
Q: Do chemo side effects get worse with each treatment? A: Some people undergoing chemotherapy report that they feel more fatigue the further along they get in their regimen. Nerve damage can occur with chemotherapy, and this may get worse with each dose. Sometimes, treatment has to be stopped because of this.
How do you know if chemo is killing you?
Here are some signs that chemotherapy may not be working as well as expected: tumors aren't shrinking. new tumors keep forming. cancer is spreading to new areas....Along the way, the timeline may have to be adjusted due to:low blood counts.adverse effects to major organs.severe side effects.
Can chemo go bad?
These are called late effects. Sometimes the side effects can last a lifetime, such as when chemo causes long-term damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, or reproductive organs. Certain types of chemo sometimes cause delayed effects, such as a second cancer that may show up many years later.
What is the hardest chemo?
Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) is one of the most powerful chemotherapy drugs ever invented. It can kill cancer cells at every point in their life cycle, and it's used to treat a wide variety of cancers. Unfortunately, the drug can also damage heart cells, so a patient can't take it indefinitely.
Why does chemo get worse with each treatment?
Most types of pain related to chemotherapy get better or go away between individual treatments. However, nerve damage often gets worse with each dose. Sometimes the drug causing the nerve damage has to be stopped. It can take months or years for nerve damage from chemotherapy to improve or go away.
Can chemo cause sudden death?
Chemotherapy. Antineoplastic chemotherapeutic agents can cause complications potentially leading to cardiopulmonary arrest. Angina, myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, hypotension, arrhythmia and sudden death have been reported as complications of treatment with several cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs.
What percentage of chemo patients survive?
The survival rate for those diagnosed in stages 1-3 is near 100% and about 71% for stage 4. The five-year survival rate is 90% for medullary carcinoma and 7% for anaplastic carcinoma.
How many rounds of chemo is normal?
During a course of treatment, you usually have around 4 to 8 cycles of treatment. A cycle is the time between one round of treatment until the start of the next. After each round of treatment you have a break, to allow your body to recover.
Why do oncologists push chemo?
An oncologist may recommend chemotherapy before and/or after another treatment. For example, in a patient with breast cancer, chemotherapy may be used before surgery, to try to shrink the tumor. The same patient may benefit from chemotherapy after surgery to try to destroy remaining cancer cells.
Why should I stop chemotherapy?
This may be because of adverse side effects, because the treatment seems to be ineffective, or for other reasons. Anyone who is considering stopping should speak with their doctor first.
How do you know if chemo is not working?
Signs chemo is not working. Signs that a person’s cancer is not responding to chemotherapy include: a tumor growing or not shrinking. cancer spreading to other areas of the body, a process called metastasis. cancer symptoms returning.
What to do if chemotherapy stops working?
If chemotherapy stops working, discuss the other options with the oncologist, the rest of the healthcare team, and loved ones, including family members, before making a decision about treatment going forward . Last medically reviewed on March 1, 2021. Cancer / Oncology.
How long does radiation treatment last?
It can be inconvenient and time-consuming, as a person needs to have the treatment 5 days a week for up to 2 months. It can be expensive, though the exact cost depends on the type and amount of treatment. The skin around the site of radiation can become red and sore.
How long does it take for a radioactive implant to be removed?
The implants can either be permanent or temporary. Temporary implants are usually removed after a few minutes or days , and the person is considered radioactive until the removal.
Why do doctors do chemo tests?
Doctors do tests at intervals to assess the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
Does immunotherapy help with cancer?
Some types of cancer do not respond well to radiation or chemotherapy, so a person may need to try immunotherapy. This aims to help the immune system fight cancer in the same way that it fights infections. Immunotherapies either stimulate the immune system in a general way or train it to attack cancer cells directly.
How to lose weight after chemo?
Work with a dietitian or nutritionist and add strength training exercises to your workout routine to help you shed some pounds. Energy. You probably remember the fatigue that hit you while you were getting chemo. But some people still feel extremely tired after treatment ends.
How long does chemo rash last?
Some side effects of chemotherapy only happen while you're having treatment and disappear quickly after it's over. But others can linger for months or years or may never completely go away. Watch out for signs of chemo's long-term changes, and let your doctor know how you feel.
Does chemo cause heart problems?
Heart. Certain chemo drugs can damage cells in your heart. Chemotherapy may also increase your odds of having heart problems, such as: Weakening of the heart muscle ( cardiomyopathy) Problems with your heart rhythm ( arrhythmia) Heart attack.
Does hair go back to normal after chemo?
But it's possible that at first it may not look like it used to. Its texture, shape, and color may be different. Over time, as the effects of the chemo on your hair follicles wear off, your hair will probably go back to the way it was before treatment. In rare cases, such as after years of strong chemotherapy, your hair follicles could shut down.
Does chemo make you gain weight?
Weight. Some types of chemo can make you put on extra pounds. You may find that the weight stays on even when your treatment ends. For instance, some drugs that treat breast cancer can cause you to lose muscle and gain fat, which makes it much more difficult to get the weight off.
Can you have children after chemo?
If chemo kills the immature stem cells in your testicles that become new sperm, you may become infertile, which means you can't have children . If you're a woman, chemotherapy can damage your eggs and harm your ovaries. You may stop having regular menstrual cycles after treatment.
Can chemotherapy make you tired?
But some people still feel extremely tired after treatment ends. You may find that even when you get enough rest, you still feel sluggish. Talk to your doctor for suggestions on how to raise your energy level. Chemotherapy can affect your ability to have children, whether you're a man or woman.
When do chemo side effects kick in??
I have breast cancer and am on an 8 cycle course of chemo ('AC' for the first 4 cycles and then 'T' for the final 4) It is now the day after my first dose and apart from feeling tired and a bit nauseous I don't feel so bad.
When do chemo side effects kick in??
Hubby was fine for first few doses then it kicked in the more he had. Chemo is meant to build up as each course is done. You need to take the advice given, not do your own thing! The team will guide you in any problems and contact your nurse if you have effects you are not happy with. Good luck, we are now through it and hubby is 71 years old. Caz
When do chemo side effects kick in??
Hi, I've not long finished my cycle of chemotherapy for lung cancer. I had various side effects but class myself very lucky they were only slight ones.
When do chemo side effects kick in??
Hi, I'm in same situation but I'm 2 weeks into first cycle of chemotherapy, I feel like I'm kind of stuck just waiting for these side effects to hit me like a brick.. part from a bit sickness & tiredness I have been ok. Had occasional meal & nights out even a few drinks, waiting for the unknown to happen I found harder.
When do chemo side effects kick in??
Hi , this is my first post though all of this ☺️ Am only 7 wk into diagnose already had mastectomy n had my first chemo yesterday like u I thought no point n worrying what it’s going to b like till it happens but god last nite n today the sick feeling is killing me plus the headache is bad is this normal should I call the ward feeling sad
When do chemo side effects kick in??
I'm afraid the old answer "it depends" is valid here. Similar patients on exactly the same chemo can have different chemo experiences. Keep taking the anti side effect drugs - the fact you aren't having side effects probably means they are working!
When do chemo side effects kick in??
I'm about to have cycle 5 of my chemo tomorrow. I must say, I was pretty nervous going into it all, especially as I'm emetophobic. However, I had great anti-sickness pills from my consultant (after a little experiementation) and other than hair loss (day 17 after first chemo), the side effects haven't got much worse since cycle 2.
What to expect from chemotherapy?
What to Expect. Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer. It involves the use of powerful drugs to stop cancer cells from growing and spreading. Although the treatment itself isn’t usually uncomfortable, pain is sometimes a side effect. Side effects can depend on the type of cancer you have, your overall health, ...
What is the pain caused by chemotherapy?
Pain is a potential side effect of chemotherapy. The pain caused by chemotherapy is often described as a burning, numb, tingling, or shooting sensation. It tends to occur in the hands and feet. This is called neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is the result of damage to the nerves caused by chemotherapy drugs or, sometimes, the cancer itself.
How to keep track of pain after cancer treatment?
Keep in mind that your pain levels may fluctuate throughout your treatment. Many cancer treatment resources recommend keeping a record of when and where you feel pain, what it feels like, and how strong it is. Speak with your healthcare team about how pain affects your day-to-day activities.
Can you get chemotherapy via injections?
Chemotherapy via injections. In other cases, chemotherapy drugs are delivered via injections. The pain from a chemotherapy injection is comparable to the pain from any other injection, such as a vaccine.
Is chemotherapy a side effect?
Westend61/Offset Images. Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer. It involves the use of powerful drugs to stop cancer cells from growing and spreading. Although the treatment itself isn’t usually uncomfortable, pain is sometimes a side effect. Side effects can depend on the type of cancer you have, your overall health, ...
Does chemotherapy go away?
It depends on the individual and the type of drug administered. Most side effects of chemotherapy start during treatment and go away once you finish treatment. However, certain changes can be permanent.
Is chemotherapy painful?
While this treatment may cause discomfort, it isn’t typically painful. Pain caused by nerve damage is a potential short-term effect of chemotherapy.
1. Foods that affect CYP enzymes
Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes are molecules that promote the metabolism and absorption of chemotherapy drugs into the blood.
2. Overexertion
Some of the common effects of chemotherapy include fatigue, nausea, and mood changes.
4. Smoking
A person should avoid smoking during chemotherapy, as tobacco and cigarette smoke can lead to unwanted effects.
5. Drinking alcohol
Alcohol, even in small amounts, can worsen the side effects of chemotherapy, such as a dry and sore mouth.
6. Undercooked or raw food
Undercooked and raw food may contain infection-causing germs. Because cancer and chemotherapy weaken the body’s immune system, a person undergoing chemotherapy may find it harder to fight such infections.
7. Spicy and acidic food
Chemotherapy can cause sores to form in the mouth. This is because treatment also affects rapidly-growing cells in the lining of the mouth and lips, not just the cancer cells.
8. Hard food
A person undergoing chemotherapy who has mouth sores may want to avoid hard and sharp foods that may be difficult to chew and swallow or that may cause more pain in the mouth. These include:
How to stop chemotherapy?
Avoid gyms. Since chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, it’s a good idea to avoid crowded gyms during your treatment. Know when to stop. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain during your workout, stop the workout and speak with your doctor about other ways to stay active.
What are the side effects of chemotherapy?
When this happens, it can lead to side effects like lowered immunity, hair loss, and nausea or vomiting. There are certain precautions that you can take to limit your side effects and help make treatment safer. We’ll explore nine things to avoid during chemotherapy treatment.
How to avoid contact with body fluids?
Here are a few tips for a avoiding contact: Wash your hands. Thoroughly wash and dry your hands after using the bathroom or after coming into contact with any body fluids that may contain chemotherapy drugs. Flush twice.
How does chemotherapy work?
It works by using strong drugs to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells, which grow and divide more quickly than many healthy cell types. However, it’s still possible for chemotherapy to target healthy cells that also divide quickly. Some examples include cells in the digestive tract, immune system, ...
What to do during chemotherapy?
These include things like eating a nutritious diet, staying active, and using support services like counseling and support groups. Last medically reviewed on May 5, 2021.
Why is it important to keep up with your body during chemotherapy?
Because of this, you’ll need to have extra calories and protein in your diet.
Can chemotherapy drugs cause urine?
Because of this, it’s possible for these drugs to be present in various body fluids, including urine, stool, and vomit during this time. Because chemotherapy drugs can affect healthy cells, coming into contact with them in various body fluids can be potentially harmful to yourself or others.
How long after chemo can you go home?
They may have you wait 30 minutes after the chemotherapy is done to make sure you don't have any reactions to the medications. At that point, you can go home. Again, depending on your pre-medications and chemotherapy, you may have lots of energy or may feel very sleepy later in the day.
What to do after chemo?
After the chemotherapy is finished, the nurse will "flush" your IV line with saline and then de-access your port or take out your IV.
How early can you get blood work done for chemo?
First, you may be told to show up a couple of hours early to get blood work drawn. This is to make sure you're able to get your chemotherapy treatment.#N#It can be a pain, but, believe me, it's in your best interest.#N#Use the extra time to relax before you go to your chemotherapy appointment.#N#When you arrive at the infusion floor and they have your lab results and a room available, you'll be called back to have your vital signs taken.#N#Once you are cleared at the vitals station, you will be taken to your chemotherapy room for your infusion.#N#At MD Anderson, you will have a TV, Internet access, a bed or a recliner and best of all warm blankets.#N#They also have food service at lunch and dinner if you're hungry.#N#At MD Anderson, you're allowed to have one caregiver with you in the infusion room.
How long does it take for chemo to arrive?
It usually takes at least 30 minutes for the drugs to arrive. Some of the pre-medications may be steroids, anti- nausea medications and/or anxiety medications.
How do nurses start chemotherapy?
Your nurse will begin with a saline solution through your IV. As soon as the medications are delivered, your nurse will hang the bags of medication on the IV stand and then start the different IVs. You'll be given pre-medications first, then the chemotherapy.
Is chemotherapy a word?
Chemotherapy. It's not a word people want to hear and certainly not something they want to go through. But, for those of us with cancer, we often don't have a choice. I remember how terrified I was of getting my first chemotherapy treatment. Would I be sick?
Can steroids make you sleepy?
The steroids may give you energy; the allergy drugs and anti-anxiety drugs may make you sleepy. It's important that you have a caregiver with you to get you to and from chemotherapy the first time, as you don't know how you'll feel after you're done.
