Cochise Oncology

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How Does Chemotherapy Affect Your Body?

Each type of cancer responds best to different treatments. Many people will receive chemotherapy as part of their cancer treatment. It uses a range of chemical treatments that work by interrupting the growth of cancer cells or halting their spread.

What is Chemotherapy?

Alone or combined with other treatments like radiotherapy, chemotherapy is a mainstay of cancer treatment. It targets rapidly dividing cells by interfering with cells’ ability to make copies of themselves. While this affects cancer cells, it can also affect normal cells, causing many of chemotherapy’s effects on the body.

How Does Chemotherapy Affect Your Body?

Chemotherapy can affect your body in many ways, depending on the type of treatment. Common areas affected include the digestive system, nervous system, and skin.

How Chemotherapy Works

Chemotherapy uses chemicals that target different stages of cell division. Most of them interfere in some way with cancer cells when they try to copy their DNA, making them unable to replicate. While very effective against cancer, they also affect normal cells that divide quickly.

Chemotherapy Effects

Chemotherapy side effects vary by type of chemotherapy. Many people experience digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Other common problems include “brain fog,” memory and cognitive issues, and fatigue. Bruising and bleeding under the skin can occur, and some people have hair loss.

Many symptoms are related to the effect of chemotherapy on fast-dividing cells. For example, cells in the digestive system reproduce very quickly, so chemotherapy can significantly affect them. Other fast-dividing cells that can be affected are your hair follicles, causing hair loss, and the cells in your bone marrow.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Long Does Chemotherapy Last?

Chemotherapy can be administered in several ways, typically as a pill or an IV drip. Most people will receive chemotherapy in cycles that last two to six weeks. The break between cycles lets your body recover before the next treatment. You will usually continue with cycles of chemotherapy until the cancer is gone, the drug no longer works, or your body does not tolerate the treatment.

How Can I Reduce the Effects of Chemotherapy?

You can manage chemotherapy’s effects on your body in many ways. We recommend trying different strategies until you find the ones that help you.

Digestive system issues may improve if you eat five or six small meals daily and avoid fatty or spicy foods. Many people deal with fatigue and brain fog with light physical activity and using schedules and lists. Reduce hair loss by using a soft-bristled brush and using only gentle products.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.