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Chemotherapy 101: Everything You Need to Know

Chemotherapy was the first non-surgical way to treat cancer using chemicals. It is still a vital part of cancer treatment, whether alone or combined with radiation or immunotherapy. Chemotherapy continues to evolve, with newer and more targeted options available all the time. 

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a way to target cancer cells with chemicals or drugs. These chemicals stop cancer cells from dividing. However, they can also affect other cells, causing side effects. Chemotherapy is not a single treatment but a wide range of drug options targeted to different types of cancer. A full medical evaluation, including genetic testing, will help identify the agents that will work best for you.

Chemotherapy 101: Everything You Need to Know

Chemotherapy drugs remain one of the most effective ways to treat many types of cancer. If it will be part of your treatment plan, your team will review what you can expect in more detail. You may be on a single drug or a combination. 

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Most chemotherapy drugs affect cancer cells by targeting ways they behave differently than normal cells. For example, cancer cells copy their DNA and divide more rapidly than most body cells, so some chemotherapy drugs inhibit rapidly dividing cells. However, this also affects other cells, like those in the hair follicles and digestive tract. Chemotherapy can also interfere with other cellular processes that cancer cells cannot live without.

What Can Chemotherapy Treat?

Chemotherapy is a standard treatment for many types of cancer. While some types of cancer are treated with radiation or immunotherapy alone, most are treated with a combination of therapies to eliminate the cancer and prevent its return. For example, radiation may be used to treat a tumor, while chemotherapy makes sure no cancer cells have traveled to other places.

How is Chemotherapy Administered?

Some types of chemotherapy are administered orally or as an injection. However, most people receive their treatment by IV in our comfortable infusion center. How often you have treatment depends on the type of chemotherapy. Treatment may last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. 

What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy side effects vary widely, but some are very common. People often experience:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, mouth sores, and others)
  • Neurological and cognitive symptoms (brain fog, memory problems)
  • Fatigue
  • Hair loss
  • Anemia
  • Susceptibility to infection

Areas with rapidly dividing cells are often affected by chemotherapy. These include hair follicles, the digestive tract, and the bone marrow, where red and white blood cells are made. Newer types of chemotherapy are more effective at targeting cancer with less effect on healthy cells. Your team will provide you with assistance managing your side effects and staying as comfortable as possible. 

Take the Next Step

Do you have questions about chemotherapy? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page.

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Our dedicated team in Sierra Vista, AZ is here to support you with hope, strength, and courage. We offer personalized cancer care using innovative treatments in our state-of-the-art facility. Take the first step towards comprehensive, patient-focused treatment by scheduling a consultation. Let us listen to your needs, answer your questions, and create a tailored plan for your journey. Fill out our form to connect with our compassionate experts and discover how Cochise Oncology can stand with you in your fight against cancer.

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