What to Expect From Breast Cancer Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is one treatment for breast cancer

Chemotherapy is a treatment that prevents cancer cells from dividing and spreading into the rest of the body. Chemotherapy stops the division of cells that divide rapidly, including hair and skin cells.

Function

Chemotherapy is used to treat both early-stage breast cancer, to prevent the cancer from coming back, and advanced-stage breast cancer, to destroy cancer cells as quickly as possible.

Time Frame

Chemotherapy is given in cycles. For example, a doctor may administer chemotherapy for several days in a row, with a resting period afterward. It will usually take between three and six months to finish a chemotherapy treatment.

Considerations

Chemotherapy can be administered in several ways, including orally, through an IV, through a port installed in the body, through a catheter and in a shot.

Effects

Side effects of chemotherapy include hair loss, changes in nails and fingers, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, changes in taste and smell, vaginal dryness, changing weight, memory loss and mouth sores.

Prevention/Solution

Seeing a dentist before starting chemotherapy will ensure that your mouth is healthy, as chemotherapy can cause rapid bacteria growth in the mouth and teeth.

References

• Breast Cancer: Chemotherapy

Resources

• National Cancer Institute: Breast Cancer