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Chemotherapy is an essential cancer treatment that slows the disease's progression by targeting rapidly dividing cells, thereby aiming to eliminate or control the growth of cancerous cells. Chemotherapy is necessary because cancer is an aggressive disease, indicating that abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably, producing tumours and sometimes spreading to other regions of the body (metastasis). If uncontrolled, its spread has the potential to cause deadly consequences and interfere with regular biological processes.
For individuals whose cancer cannot be surgically removed or treated with radiation because of its location, size, or stage, Chemotherapy is frequently necessary in addition to direct tumour reduction. To eradicate any cancer cells that may have remained after Radiation or Surgery, it can also be used as an Adjuvant Therapy to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Furthermore, Chemotherapy is the first line of treatment for certain very aggressive or extensive cancers, providing a critical opportunity for remission or disease control.
Manipal Hospitals is one of India's top hospitals, well known for offering complete cancer care services, including cutting-edge Chemotherapy treatments. Modern facilities and a diverse team of professionals, including radiologists, haematologists, oncologists, and support staff members, enable the hospital's Oncology Department to provide cancer patients with comprehensive and individualised care.
Chemotherapy may be used in a variety of ways to target cancer cells efficiently. Among these techniques are:
Intravenous (IV): Using an IV line, port, or catheter, Chemotherapy medications are injected straight into a vein. Rapid bloodstream absorption is made possible by this approach.
Oral Route: Liquids, tablets, or capsules are possible forms of Chemotherapy medications. The ease of taking medicine at home is provided by this strategy.
IntraMusclular, Subcutaneous, or Intrathecal Route: Chemotherapy can be administered intramuscularly (to target a specific location), subcutaneously (under the skin), or intrathecally (into the fluid around the brain).
Topically: For some types of skin cancer, Chemotherapy can be given directly to the skin as creams or ointments.
Intraperitoneal (IP): To treat cancers in the abdominal cavity, such as ovarian cancer, Chemotherapy is injected directly into the cavity.
Intravesical: To treat bladder cancer, Chemotherapy is injected via a catheter straight into the bladder.
Depending on the type of Chemotherapy medication used, how it is administered, and your treatment plan, each Chemotherapy session could range from one to three hours. The duration of a session might vary from a few minutes to many hours. While some treatments can take several days to complete continuously with infusions, others can be finished in less than an hour.
Each session's duration is determined by several factors, including the particular drug regimen, whether pre-medications are necessary to prevent adverse effects, how quickly the medicines are provided, and whether further treatments, such as supportive care or hydration, are required.
Many side effects, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and an elevated risk of infection as a result of decreased white blood cell counts, are associated with Chemotherapy. Mouth sores, altered appetite, constipation, diarrhoea, and skin changes are further potential adverse effects. These side effects might vary in intensity, and not everyone encounters them all. To ensure that your treatment is as comfortable as possible, your healthcare team will assist you in managing any side effects and will offer supportive care.
The type and stage of your disease, the particular Chemotherapy medications being used, your general health, and how well your body reacts to the treatment will all determine how many Chemotherapy treatments you will require. A single session of treatment may be followed by several sessions spread out across weeks or months. The duration and frequency of each session will be part of a customised treatment plan and timetable that your oncologist creates based on your individual needs. Frequent assessments will assist in assessing the treatment's efficacy and the need for any modifications.
You may take certain steps to make sure your Chemotherapy session goes more smoothly. Consume a small meal to lessen the likelihood of nausea, and drink enough water to maintain your body's overall well-being. Bring a blanket or pillow for extra comfort throughout the session, and dress comfortably. You may feel tired after the appointment, so make arrangements for someone to take you there and back. Observe any particular guidance provided by your medical team; it can involve abstaining from certain drugs or meals before receiving treatment. Personalised advice based on your treatment plan will be given by your healthcare team.
A typical adverse effect of several Chemotherapy treatments is hair loss. However, this is not always the case and varies depending on the particular medication being taken. If hair loss happens, it usually starts a few weeks after treatment and can impact hair on your body as a whole, not just the scalp. Fortunately, hair normally grows back after treatment, but it may not have the same texture or colour. Your doctor may provide advice on how to manage hair loss, including how to use light shampoos and follow delicate hair care regimens. They can also recommend head coverings, such as wigs, scarves, or hats, to make you feel more at ease and self-assured.
Any over-the-counter medicines and herbal treatments, as well as any supplements you take, should be disclosed to your healthcare team since they may interfere with Chemotherapy therapies. Chemotherapy may not work as well or may have more negative effects if certain drugs are used. Your medical team will examine the drugs you are already taking and counsel you on any modifications that may be necessary while receiving Chemotherapy. Consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medicine, as they may offer advice on how to keep you safe and maximise the benefits of your therapy.
By influencing the ovaries or sperm production, some Chemotherapy therapies can affect fertility. It is crucial to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have about becoming pregnant again before beginning Chemotherapy treatment. They may discuss your choices for preserving your fertility and advise you on information about how Chemotherapy could affect it. Fertility preservation techniques like egg freezing for women and sperm banking for men may be good choices to think about before beginning treatment, depending on your circumstances.
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