Cochise Oncology

Share This Post

How to Prepare for Chemotherapy

For many, chemotherapy is the best option for defeating cancer, but it is also a long and challenging path. Equipping yourself ahead of time can make chemotherapy more manageable, and Cochise Oncology is dedicated to helping every patient on their treatment journey.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a widely used medical treatment for cancer that involves administering powerful drugs to destroy or slow down the growth of cancer cells. It is often employed as a primary or adjuvant therapy and can be administered orally or intravenously. While chemotherapy can effectively target rapidly dividing cancer cells, it may also have several common side effects.

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy interferes with the growth and division of rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. It does this by introducing powerful drugs into the body that target various cell cycle stages, preventing cancer cells from proliferating. Cancer cells are characterized by how quickly they grow and multiply. Chemo can effectively target this characteristic, but it may also affect some healthy cells at the same time.

Preparing for Chemotherapy

Though it is often an effective cancer treatment, chemotherapy has side effects that can significantly impact your quality of life. Your Cochise Oncology team will be there every step of the way to help you manage these challenges as you battle cancer. Knowing what to expect and preparing ahead of time can help minimize the difficulty of chemo.

Many people struggle with fatigue and nausea for the first day or two after a chemo session. Planning ahead can save you from responsibilities and tasks during this time, allowing you to rest. Here are a few preparation tips for chemotherapy:

Have someone drive you to and from appointments
Give yourself time off after each appointment until you know how it affects you
Stock up on groceries, freeze meals in advance, or consider a meal delivery service
Arrange for childcare and pet care if needed

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.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Many chemotherapy side effects are worse immediately after a session. Others are more long-term and persist or come and go throughout the course of your treatment. The most common side effects of chemo are:

Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Hair loss
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea or constipation
Mouth sores
Pain
Easy bruising

How Long Does Chemotherapy Take?

Your oncology team will work with you to create a personalized treatment based on the type, location, stage of cancer, your unique needs and preferences. Typically, a course of chemotherapy takes three to six months, with cycles of daily, weekly, or monthly sessions. If you receive chemo through an IV, each session may take several hours.

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.