Chemotherapy And Breast Cancer: What You Need To Know About Treatment And Recovery

14 अक्टूबर, 2024
प्रकाशन की तारीख: 14 अक्टूबर, 2024
4 मिनट में पढ़ें

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer around the world. In India, breast cancer accounts For 28.2% of all female cancers. One of the key treatment methods include chemotherapy for breast cancer to prevent the growth of cancer cells. While chemoradiations can bear fruitful results, they are not without their side effects.

इनके बारे में जानें:

The purpose of chemotherapy in breast cancer treatment
Short-term side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer
Long-term side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer
Managing side effects

The purpose of chemotherapy in breast cancer treatment

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Chemotherapy is a medical treatment that uses cytotoxic (anticancer) drugs to treat cancer. It interferes with the cancer cells’ ability to divide and grow. Chemotherapy can be given before the breast cancer surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the size of the tumor or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can be used after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to reduce the risk of cancer spreading.

However, not everyone with early breast cancer has to undergo chemotherapy. It is recommended based on individual situations. Medical oncologists consider the following factors:

The pathology of breast cancer
Chances of relapsing
The cancer spreading to other parts of the body
A person’s general health condition

Types of chemotherapy drugs and regimens

Several types of chemotherapy drugs and regimens are used to treat स्तन कैंसर. Most chemotherapy drugs are given by an intravenous (IV) drip through a cannula (a thin plastic tube) into a vein attached to the arm or hand. At times, a Port or PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) is used to enhance access to veins for people who regularly take the chemotherapy treatment. Some chemotherapy drugs are also given in the tablet form.

Short-term side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer

Chemotherapy for breast cancer has some short-term side effects.

Fatigue and nausea

After undergoing each session of chemotherapy for breast cancer, fatigue may set in because your body’s energy is diverted to repair tissues damaged by the treatment. It affects your gastrointestinal tract, making you feel nauseous or vomitish, and it can also weaken your immune system, leading to an upset stomach or a disrupted bowel system.

बाल का झड़ना

Alopecia or hair loss is the most common side effect of chemotherapy. One may lose hair from their scalp, eyebrows, eye lashes, underarms, facial hair, and pubic hair. To prevent this hair loss, some oncology centres offer scalp cooling machines or cold caps to cool the scalp and reduce blood flow to the scalp to preserve the hair follicles.

Mouth sores and taste changes

Some chemotherapy treatments are so strong that they may cause mouth ulcers that can make eating difficult. Consuming soft mints can help you get rid of the metallic taste that forms as a result of this treatment.

Skin rashes

Considering how chemotherapy for breast cancer attacks the healthy cells, the treatment may cause your skin to become dry and itchy or your nails to become brittle. It can trigger skin rashes, redness, or even peeling. Ensure you wear soft, light fabrics or cotton clothes that do not rub against your skin.

Long-term side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer

While chemotherapy attacks the fast-growing cancer cells, it also damages the healthy cells in the body, including blood cells, hair follicles, cells inside the mouth, and gut and reproductive organs.

Infertility and menopause

Chemotherapy for breast cancer can cause your menstrual cycle to become irregular or stop them completely, causing premature menopause or infertility. Consult a cancer specialist and a fertility specialist before you begin your treatment.

Bone thinning

Chemotherapy reduces the estrogen levels of the body, which can reduce bone density, making women more prone to bone fractures and osteoporosis.

Weakening of the heart

A few chemotherapy drugs, when used in high doses for a long time, can weaken your heart, resulting in cardiomyopathy. It is a common practise to get your heart condition checked before the drugs are prescribed. Regular cardiac monitoring is also recommended during and after the treatment.

Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy, characterized by tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet, can persist long after treatment, particularly with drugs like paclitaxel and vincristine.

Managing side effects

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Adequate lifestyle changes can help you combat the side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer and stay healthy in the long term.

Hydration and nutrition

Hydration is key. So, drink 1-2 litres of water every day to cope with chemotherapy’s stress. Consume high-protein, nutrient-dense food to support the immune system and the tissue repair process. Avoid acidic or spicy foods that may flare up the mouth sores.

Pain management techniques

Aside from taking medicines to assuage your pain, practise effective relaxation techniques such as yoga and सचेतनपूर्ण मेडिटेशन. Pain arising from mouth sores, inflammation or nerve damage can be managed with prescribed medications.

Skin care and hygiene

Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers to prevent irritation or skin rashes. Avoid direct exposure to the sun, and use sunscreen before you step out. Use soft-bristled toothbrushes and alcohol-free mouthwashes to reduce the risk of ulcers.

Pain management

Discuss pain management options with your doctor, including medications or supplements.

Regular follow-up

Communicate with Healthcare Providers. Keep your medical team informed about side effects; they can provide interventions or adjust treatment if necessary.

Comprehensive cancer control strategies include early detection of breast cancer, more awareness, accessible multimodality treatments, and palliative and survivorship care. These are key to increasing survival rates in India.

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