Among the most widely used methods in overcoming cancer is chemotherapy. This treatment makes use of strong drugs in order to rid the patient’s body of the cancerous cells and stop them from multiplying. One way or another, chemotherapy can be used in isolation or in conjunction with other treatment procedures such as surgery or radiation therapy. Although a name such as chemotherapy continues to inspire fear among many people, it can actually help to educate and prepare people.

What Is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy involves using drugs which attack fast multiplying cells in the body. As already explained, a cancer cell grows faster than a normal cell; hence, these drugs can attack such cancerous cells. Such drugs can be administered in a variety of ways based on the type of cancer a patient has, among other factors.

Chemotherapy can be prescribed for:

• To destroy cancer cells
• To reduce tumors prior to surgery or irradiation
• To eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery
• To slow tumor progression and alleviate symptoms in late phases

Administering Chemotherapy Treatment

Such drugs can be administered in a variety of methods, including:

• A technique in which medication is infused into a vein
• Professional healthcare sites may include hospitals, medical centres,
• Oral chemotherapy, in tablet or capsule form
• Injections, given into muscles or under the skin
• Topical chemotherapy in cream form for some skin malignancies

Treatment is administered in a cycle. A cycle consists of a treatment phase and a resting phase in order for the body to recover.

Treatment with Drug Combinations

Often, chemotherapy is used in combination with another treatment.

• Chemotherapy & Surgery: May be given prior to surgery to make a tumour smaller & simpler to remove &/or following surgery to eliminate any undetained cancerous cells.
• Chemotherapy & radiation therapy: Chemotherapy can make cancer cells more radiosensitive, which will enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy.

Combining therapies enables a medical team to address a tumour from various sides.

Immunotherapy

This immunotherapy is an innovative treatment that assists the human body in fighting diseases like cancer. It does not target cancer cells like any other cancer medication known as chemotherapy. It works by building or directing the human body to effectively fight cancer. It may be in injection form, infusion medications, or tablets. It is known to have fewer side effects compared to other cancer medications. It is also working effectively in many cancer patients in the long term, but it may not have the same effect on everyone.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a drug treatment that targets certain genes, proteins, or signals that allow cancer cells to grow and live. Targeted therapy is more specific compared to chemotherapy since targeted therapy only targets cancer cells, reducing the harm to healthy cells. Targeted therapy is usually applied to treat many forms of cancer depending on the test results obtained by the patient. Targeted therapy is very effective since it produces minimal side effects associated with its application. Targeted therapy requires the specific target for the disease to be known.

Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy treatment

As chemo targets rapidly dividing cells, it can sometimes affect healthy cells too, resulting in side effects. The side effects can differ from one individual to another and will rely on which chemo drugs have been used in treatment. Some common side effects include:

• Fatigue
• Vomiting and/or nausea
• Hair loss
• Loss of appetite
• Increased risk of infections
• Mouth sores

Usually, side effects are short-term. They can be dealt with by supportive care, drugs, and behavior modification. The patient is very closely monitored by doctors to avoid any pain or complication.

Life during Chemotherapy

Physically, a lot of people continue with their work and daily activities despite undergoing chemotherapy. Foods rich in nutrients, fluid intake, resting well, and getting support are very important. Good communication with healthcare providers can help in dealing with symptoms in time, resulting in a better quality of life.

Importance of Emotional and Psychological Support

Having a cancer diagnosis and undergoing chemotherapy can be very emotionally straining. Patients can undergo stress, fear, and depression. Counselling, support programs, and family support are very important in assisting patients in dealing with their mentality during treatment.

Advances in Chemotherapy

Current chemotherapy is more targeted and personalized. Treatment is based on cancer type, genetics, and patient health by doctors, making it more effective with fewer side effects. Additionally, new supportive drugs make nausea, pain, and tiredness manageable compared to before.

Conclusion

Compassionate Cancer Care at Mythri Hospitals Even now, chemotherapy is a very effective course of treatment available for many different forms of cancer, especially when undertaken in combination with other therapies such as surgery and radiation. With adequate medical support and proper guidance, patients can undergo this treatment with ease. At Mythri Hospitals, patients are provided with end-to-end support for treatment of cancer by a team of specialists along with state-of-the-art facilities. Mythri Hospitals wishes to accompany patients in their battle with cancer right from the onset and help them regain hope in life.