Chemotherapy

What is Chemo?

Chemotherapy, also referred to as "Chemo", is a treatment of cancer that uses drugs to cure, control or ease painful symptoms of cancer. It works by stopping or slowing the growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Chemotherapy is used to treat a wide variety of cancers but often times will be paired with other cancer treatment options to be most effective.

Chemotherapy is used with other treatments to :

• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy - Shrinking of tumors before radiation therapy or surgery.

• Adjuvant chemotherapy - The elimination of cancer cells that remain post radiation therapy or surgery.

• Eliminate cancer cells that have returned or metastasized to other areas of the body.

• Increase the efficacy of another cancer treatment.

Side Effects from Chemo Treatment

Although the Chemotherapy treatment is used to eliminate and slow the growth of cancer cells, side effects occur when healthy cells are effected. It is important to keep in mind that everyone will have different reactions to their treatment plan and speak to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any discomfort from the symptoms below:

• Anemia

• Appetite Loss

• Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia)

• Constipation

• Delirium

• Diarrhea

• Edema (Swelling)

• Fatigue

• Fertility Issues in Boys and Men

• Fertility Issues in Girls and Women

• Flu-Like Symptoms

• Hair Loss (Alopecia)