Chemotherapy

Question 1

Chemotherapy and How Does It Work?

Answer

Chemotherapy is a powerful drug therapy that destroys fast-growing cells in the body. It is mostly used to treat cancer. As compared to normal cells in the body, cancer cells tend to grow and multiply rapidly in an uncontrolled manner. Chemotherapy drugs attack the cancer cells to stop them from growing and multiplying.

These drugs can either be used individually or in combination with other therapies like surgery, hormone therapy, or chemo and radiation together. Platinum-based chemotherapy is an example of an individualized cancer treatment.

Question 2

At What Stage of Cancer Is Chemotherapy Used?

Answer

In medical oncology services, chemotherapy can be used in various settings, depending on the type of cancer and its stage.

Before surgery – chemotherapy may be used to shrink a tumor before surgery or radiotherapy. This is also known as induction chemotherapy.
After surgery – chemotherapy can be used after the surgery, to eliminate any cancer cells that may be remaining in the body.
To relieve pain and other symptoms – this type of therapy is known as Palliative Chemotherapy. It can be used at any stage, to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life.

Question 3

How Effective Is Chemotherapy?

Answer

Chemotherapy has proven to be effective in treating several types of cancer. However, it can cause numerous side effects. The most common side effects are mild in nature and may subside once the treatment is over. Common side effects of chemotherapy include:

Loss of appetite
Hair loss
Fever
Fatigue
Vomiting
Nausea
Weight loss
Insomnia
Constipation
Diarrhea
Bruising
Bleeding
Mouth Sores
Pain

Question 4

How to Prepare for Chemotherapy?

Answer

Our infusion centers and medical centers are staffed by highly skilled oncology physicians and nurses to prepare you for your chemotherapy treatment. Consider the following:

Make arrangements at work and home. Mostly, people are able to continue with their daily activities during chemo. However, your doctor will tell you about the side effects to expect, and whether you need to lighten your workload or have someone around the house to help with chores.
Undergo a few tests to make sure your body is ready to begin chemotherapy. Get blood tests and heart tests done to check the functioning of your kidney, liver, and heart. Visit your dentist to check your teeth and look for any signs of infection.
Prepare for side effects. Your doctor will guide you about what side effects to expect, so that you can make prior plans and arrangements to deal with them.

Question 5

How much does chemotherapy cost?

Answer

The cost of chemotherapy will depend on your insurance plan’s coverage. Because of variations in coverage, we suggest you contact your insurance carrier or employer to verify specific coverage. You may also contact our offices to verify accepted plans.

Question 6

Can you get chemotherapy at home?

Answer

Chemotherapy treatment is typically administered in a clinic or a hospital. However, there are some at-home treatment options like capsules, pills, tablets, liquids, or topical treatments.