August 6, 2025 | 09:15 am
CHEMOTHERAPY is one of the most commonly used medical treatments for cancer. Chemotherapy uses specific drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing and spreading to other parts of the body.
Doctors may prescribe chemotherapy alone or in combination with surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Patients undergoing chemotherapy may also take new types of anti-cancer drugs alongside chemotherapy.
As cited from WebMD, cancer patients can undergo chemotherapy in the form of pills or injections. Patients can visit a clinic or hospital to receive medication through infusions.
To help the body recover and promote the growth of new healthy cells, patients may take these medications for several weeks. Patients may take doses every day, every week, or every month, depending on the type of cancer and its severity.
Cancer doctors, known as oncologists, may prescribe a single chemotherapy drug or a combination of several drugs depending on the type of cancer, previous cancer history, and other health issues such as diabetes, or diseases of the heart, kidney, and liver.
After tumor removal surgery, the body may still have cancer cells. These cells can develop new tumors or spread cancer to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy drugs help to destroy, shrink, or control these cells. These drugs can also treat symptoms caused by cancer, such as pain. Cancer patients may also undergo chemotherapy to shrink tumors before the doctors remove them through surgery.
There are several things that need to be prepared before undergoing chemotherapy. Here are 10 things you need to prepare before undergoing chemotherapy as quoted from Cancer Council Victoria.
1. Inquire About Fertility
Some types of chemotherapy can affect fertility. If you plan to have children in the future, discuss the available options with a specialist before starting chemotherapy.
2. Prepare a Chemotherapy Bag
A bag for chemotherapy sessions can contain warm clothes, healthy snacks, and lip balm. Also, don't forget to bring something to pass the time, such as a book, music player, or laptop.
3. Take Care of Yourself
Try to stay healthy before and during treatment. Eat nutritious foods, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and balance rest and physical activity. If you smoke or use e-cigarettes, try to quit. Exercise regularly and maintain a nutritious diet to help reduce some chemotherapy side effects.
4. Arrange Help at Home
If you have children, ask someone to take care of them during chemotherapy sessions. Although you may be allowed to drive after treatment, it is recommended that someone accompanies you on the first day.
5. Discuss Your Concerns
If you feel anxious about undergoing chemotherapy and its side effects, talk to family members, friends, or healthcare team. You can also try relaxation exercises or meditation to help manage anxiety.
6. Freeze Some Meals
You may be reluctant to cook during chemotherapy. Consider preparing some meals in advance and freezing them, or have ready-made meals available.
7. Talk to Your Boss
If you are working, discuss with your boss how you can manage your work and chemotherapy. Inquire about flexible working hours or break times if needed.
8. See a Dentist
It is advisable to visit a dentist before starting chemotherapy. Infections and bleeding are more likely to occur during chemotherapy, so it is best to treat dental problems before starting chemotherapy. Experiencing dental problems during treatment can also disrupt your chemotherapy treatment schedule.
9. Prepare for Side Effects
Discuss potential side effects with the treatment team. Ask whether you can take medication to prevent nausea and vomiting. Buy a thermometer to check your body temperature. If hair loss is likely, consider cutting it or choosing a wig before treatment begins.
10. Check Other Medications
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about over-the-counter medication, alternative and home remedies, herbal, and vitamin supplements you are taking. Some medications can affect the effectiveness of chemotherapy or worsen its side effects.
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