Cochise Oncology

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What are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a cancer-fighting technique that uses drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells. Unfortunately, while useful, this treatment causes side effects because it also damages healthy tissue in your body. Common side effects include damage to your hair follicles, blood-forming cells in bone marrow, and cells on the surface of the digestive tract and reproductive system. Additionally, some chemotherapy drugs can damage cells in your organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, and nervous system. In light of this, doctors at Cochise Oncology will often provide you medications that help to minimize any off-target effects, protecting your body.

Chemotherapy Purposes

There are three distinct reasons your doctor at Cochise Oncology may prescribe chemotherapy.

The first is the most intuitive – to kill cancerous cells in your body and eliminate the disease. Chemotherapy is a powerful intervention that allows some patients to go into remission. Being in this state means that your doctor is reasonably confident that you no longer have the disease. Note that medics will rarely talk about outright “cures,” as it is difficult to verify the total absence of cancer using current diagnostics.

The second category of chemotherapy seeks to shrink tumors and prevent them from spreading throughout the body. Thus, the goal can be to contain cancer in a specific region so that it doesn’t become life-threatening. Often it is better on a cost-benefit basis for us to manage cancer as a chronic disease instead of going for full remission.

Finally, some patients receive palliative chemotherapy, particularly those with advanced disease. The goal here is to reduce suffering and deliver a higher quality of life.

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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

Chemotherapy has helped millions of patients better manage their cancer and go into remission. However, it does cause side effects, the complete list of which you can find on the American Cancer Society website.

Here some of the side effects that you may experience:

Hair loss

Nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

Constipation

Sores on the mouth, throat, and tongue

Peripheral nerve-tingling, numbness, and pain

Problems relating to the bladder and kidney

Difficulties focusing or concentrating on regular tasks

A decline in sexual function and libido

Mood changes and fertility problems

Changes to the quality of your skin and nails

Reduction in appetite

Low red blood cell count (anemia)

When Should Chemotherapy be Considered?

If you know you have cancer, doctors with Cochise Oncology will discuss the merits and drawbacks of undergoing chemotherapy. Typically, your need for chemotherapy will depend on factors such as your age, how advanced your disease is, and the current state of your health. We will discuss what you should expect from the treatment and the likelihood of success. You’ll also learn about the drug combinations available to you to manage symptoms. Ultimately, the choice to pursue chemotherapy lies with you.

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.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about Chemotherapy? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!