The Side-Effects of Chemotherapy and How Do We Treat Them

Chemotherapy effectively treats many types of cancer. However, like some other medical treatments, it often causes a number of side effects. The side effects of chemotherapy vary for each cancer patient. Most side-effects are short-lived and disappear quickly after treatment is over. But for some cancer patients, chemotherapy can cause long term changes to their body. The side-effects of chemotherapy depend on the type of cancer, drugs, dose, and the general health of the cancer patient. I always explain to my patients that the discomfort that comes with these side-effects is always measured against the benefits of chemotherapy in cancer treatment.

Why Does Chemotherapy Cause Side Effects?

Cancer cells tend to grow at a rapid pace, which is one of the cancer cells signature traits. Chemo drugs are designed specifically to single out and attack fast-growing cells. This is the main mechanism of how chemotherapy works in treating cancer. Unfortunately, chemotherapy drugs do not differentiate between cancer cells and healthy fast-growing cells, such as blood cells, skin cells, and hair follicles. Side effects occur when chemotherapy damages these healthy cells.

What are common side-effects?

Side effect 1: Chemo Brain

During my practice, many cancer patients report experiencing symptoms commonly referred to as “chemo brain”. The symptoms include thinking and memory problems, fogginess, and similar cognitive issues. It is still uncertain as to how exactly chemotherapy causes chemo brain, but it seems somewhat more likely to happen to cancer patients who received higher doses of chemotherapy.

Side effect 2: Hair Loss

Hair loss as a side-effect of chemotherapy is commonly associated with cancer treatment. Many cancer patients suffer from hair loss as a result of chemotherapy. Luckily, hair typically grows back in a couple of weeks after the treatment is over. However, it is entirely possible that new hair growth will have changes in texture, volume, and color.

Over time, as the effects of chemotherapy on a cancer patient's hair follicles wear off, hair will probably go back to the way it was before treatment. In rare cases, after years of strong chemotherapy treatment, hair follicles could become dormant, which prevents new hair follicles from growing and may cause permanent hair loss.

For cancer patient’s dealing with hair loss, I suggest using Chemo Companion’s Mild Conditioning Shampoo. Our extra mild shampoo is free of harsh chemicals and contains ingredients that stimulate blood circulation in the scalp to promote hair re-growth

Side effect 3: Fatigue

Even with proper rest, most cancer patients receiving chemotherapy often experience episodes of fatigue. Fatigue is one of the most common side-effects of chemotherapy. Many cancer patients find it very hard to maintain energy levels at an acceptable hight.

Side effect 4: Skin and nail change

Chemotherapy can cause several different symptoms that affect skin and nails. Fingernails are affected more than toenails and usually grow out normally again about six months after treatment. Chemotherapy may damage fast growing skin and nail cells. This can cause problems such as skin that is dry, itchy, red, and/or that peels. Some cancer patients develop a rash or sun sensitivity, causing them to easily sunburn. Nail changes may include dark, yellow, or cracked nails and/or cuticles that are red and hurt.

Chemo Companion products provide relief to skin and nail issues. We offer nail treatments that

Stimulate healthy nail growth and skin products that help ease the harsh effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

Side effect 5: Weight Gain

Some types of chemo drugs are infamous for adding extra pounds. For some cancer patients, that extra weight lingers long after the treatment is over. For instance, some drugs that treat breast cancer can cause loss of muscle mass and fat build-up, which makes it much more difficult to get the weight off. I always recommend to my patients to eat a healthy and balanced diet and to exercise regularly.

Can side-effects be treated?

Yes, side-effects can be treated. Cancer patients are advised to talk to their doctor, nurse, or another member of their health care team about what can be done to ease their specific set of symptoms. Today we have a number of remedies available to help and reduce most side-effects.

How long do side-effects last?

In my observation, many side-effects are short lasting and will fade away fairly quickly, within days or weeks after the end of cancer treatment. However, I have seen cases where side-effects linger for months or even years. In some cases, when there's long-term damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, or reproductive organs, side-effects can last a lifetime.

The time it takes to heal and get over some side effects varies a lot from person to person. Recovery time depends on many factors, including patients overall health and the drugs that were used during chemotherapy. Unfortunately, certain types of chemo are known to sometimes cause delayed effects, such as second cancer that may show up many years later in life. I often meet cancer patients who feel discouraged about how long their chemotherapy treatment lasts or the side effects they have. I advise cancer patients to voice their concerns to their doctor, who will be able to suggest ways to reduce any pain and/or discomfort they are experiencing.

Managing Side Effects of Chemotherapy

In my medical practice, working with my patients as they went through the process of chemotherapy, I’ve had the opportunity to learn how cancer treatments can affect cancer patient’s body, both during and after chemotherapy. Seeing the problems that cancer patients are struggling with, I’ve decided to apply my expertise and experience in selecting products that are appropriate for cancer patients and their specific needs.

My goal is to contribute to my patient's wellbeing and full recovery and that’s why I always recommend products that complement their recovery. If you are undergoing or recently underwent cancer treatment, I highly recommend using Chemo Companion’s Chemotheraphy Kit. This carefully selected regimen will help calm, soothe and support skin under stress during chemo or radiation therapy.