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Each chemotherapy treatment plan is created to meet a patient's unique needs. But before treatment starts, you can expect to take these general steps. Meet with your oncologist. The doctor will look over your medical records and do a physical exam. You will also have tests done to help plan treatment.
Mar 8, 2013 · The length of time for chemotherapy regimens can range from 5 minutes to 8 or more hours. It all depends on the chemotherapy. Throughout the chemotherapy, your nurse will come in and check your vitals and make sure you aren't reacting to the medications. In the meantime, use your infusion time to relax, visit, eat, work, whatever you want to do.
Mar 24, 2023 · Chemotherapy ("Chemo") uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Learn more about how it works, what to expect during treatment, common side effects, and other FAQs.
- Get some rest. Fatigue is the most common side effect experienced by cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy. So, get plenty of rest and avoid pushing yourself too hard, even if you're feeling good.
- Stay hydrated. Diarrhea, vomiting and other chemotherapy side effects can leave you feeling dehydrated. Not only can this deplete your energy levels; it can also lead to other health issues.
- Eat when you can. Chemotherapy can cause nausea and appetite loss, so it’s important to eat when you can to avoid becoming malnourished. Keep in mind that many foods may taste different as you go through treatment.
- Prepare for possible hair loss. Most cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy experience hair loss, usually starting around one to three weeks after their first treatment.
- Ashley Hay
- Ask About the Chemo Medications. Every chemotherapy infusion includes a mix of drugs. Some are cancer-killing drugs, while others are medications that help ease side effects.
- Bring a "Chemo Buddy" You don't have to go to your first chemo appointment alone. There are many reasons to have a "chemo buddy" with you for this session and future ones.
- Stay Hydrated. Chemotherapy drugs are very drying to your body's tissues. Becoming dehydrated may cause you to feel worse overall. Staying well-hydrated can help your body purge waste while reducing the likelihood of problems, such as fatigue and headaches.
- Eat Light Ahead of Time. Two to three hours before an infusion, eat a light, high-fiber snack. Chemo drugs tend to slow the movement of your digestive tract (peristalsis), so whatever you eat may be in your system for longer than usual.
Mar 13, 2024 · Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill fast-growing cells in your body. Chemotherapy is most often used to treat cancer, since cancer cells grow and multiply much more quickly than most cells in the body. Many different chemotherapy drugs are available. Chemotherapy drugs can be used alone or in combination to ...
How much chemotherapy costs. What to expect when receiving chemotherapy. Special diet needs while on chemotherapy. Working during chemotherapy. How chemotherapy works against cancer. Chemotherapy works by stopping or slowing the growth of cancer cells, which grow and divide quickly. Chemotherapy is used for two reasons:
