$Unique_ID{BRK00803}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{What are the Difficulties Experienced with Chemical Treatment of
Cancer?}
$Subject{cancer treatment chemotherapy}
$Volume{P}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What are the Difficulties Experienced with Chemical Treatment of Cancer?


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QUESTION:  I've heard so many bad things about treating cancer with
medications, that I have great fear for my sister, who now needs these
treatments.  What are the difficulties experienced with chemical treatment of
cancer?

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ANSWER:  Chemical treatment of cancer, often called chemotherapy, has many
benefits but also many unpleasant side effects.  Drugs used to treat cancer
are designed to affect cells that grow and reproduce very rapidly because
cancer cells grow and reproduce very quickly.  Some normal cells, like those
in hair and fingernails, grow quickly, so they are also affected by the drugs
used to treat cancer.
     You've probably heard that people lose their hair after chemotherapy.
Other side effects are nausea and vomiting and fatigue.  Often numbers of
blood cells and sperm are decreased also.  Chemotherapy may cause soreness in
the mouth and throat, so it may be helpful to see a dentist before treatment
begins.  A dentist who is knowledgeable about cancer treatment can explain
about the best way to clean mouth and gums and prevent infection.
     Some side effects occur only when the anti-cancer drugs are taken with
certain foods, alcohol or other medicines.  When undergoing cancer treatment,
talk with your pharmacist or doctor before taking any over the counter drug.
     If any side effects of chemotherapy become severe, the physician will
provide additional medications that help overcome these unwanted problems.
The important issue here is to fight the cancer and eradicate the disease, if
possible.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
