Many people ask themselves: how often do cancer patients get chemo? The answer to this question varies from patient to patient. You will likely have regular checkups with your doctor. They will ask you about your condition, take a physical exam, and order tests and scans. These tests may include blood work, MRI, CT, and PET scans. If you’re receiving chemo, you should ask your doctor about the frequency of treatments.
Chemotherapy is typically given in cycles. These treatments are followed by rest periods. The frequency of each cycle depends on the type of cancer you have and the drug combinations you’re being given. Your doctor will discuss the right schedule for your specific cancer. Each treatment cycle can last from one to four weeks. During this time, your body can heal and regain strength. Depending on your cancer, you may need four to eight cycles. Each cycle will vary in length and may consist of multiple drugs.
Some cancer patients can receive chemo at home. Chemotherapy can be given in pill form or through an IV (intravenous infusion). This drug is injected through a needle similar to the one used to administer insulin. Some chemotherapy is given in the hospital or outpatient clinic. A nurse will usually be present to administer the treatment. You will be given regular checks during the treatment. You can even be discharged earlier if the chemo isn’t working.
After chemotherapy, you can expect to receive more frequent follow-ups and tests to monitor your condition. Your doctor will need to check your CBC count every week or two to determine whether the chemotherapy is working. If your CBC count is low, your treatment will need to be rescheduled. It’s important to remember that chemotherapy takes several rounds before your disease has completely vanished. A partial response means that your cancer has been weakened and has not spread.
When patients have cancer, chemotherapy will shrink the tumor before radiation therapy or surgery. It will also help destroy cancer cells that have spread. Chemo kills cancer cells and normal cells but also causes damage to healthy cells that grow quickly, including those that line the mouth and cause hair growth. Side effects of chemotherapy often improve once you’ve had the treatment. It’s important to note that some side effects of chemotherapy are normal and improve after a few days.
Although there’s no definitive answer to the question of how often cancer patients get chemo, it is important to understand that the treatment can help you live a better life. The cancer that you’re currently suffering from is likely to be treated for many months. In fact, many cancer patients undergo more than one type of treatment. However, the type of treatment you receive will depend on the cancer you have and your doctor’s recommendation.
When it comes to side effects, the most common is fatigue. Even active kids can experience fatigue during and after the treatment. This side effect is largely temporary and usually goes away as the normal cells in your body recover. Also, some cancer medicines can trigger a natural inflammatory response in your body, so you might experience flu-like symptoms. To relieve these symptoms, make sure to stay hydrated and take over-the-counter medicines recommended by your doctor.
