How to Undergo Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the broad term used to describe any one or a combination of drugs taken orally, topically or administered intravenously to fight cancer. It is used to treat a wide variety of cancers and is often used in conjunction with other treatments. More than half of the world's cancer patients are treated via chemotherapy. Read below for some helpful tips if you or someone you love will be undergoing chemotherapy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Oncologist

1. Make sure your doctor defines the length of your course of treatment and whether you will need to be hospitalized.
2. Adjust your work schedule and other commitments during your chemotherapy so that you have plenty of time to rest and recuperate.
3. Complete all your drug doses for the best results.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact City of Hope, a southern California cancer treatment center for a free information booklet on chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. See the Resources section below for contact information.
• Read daily web logs--or blogs--of other people undergoing cancer treatment for advice, inspiration and worldwide support.
• Ask your oncologist if you should drink extra fluids before receiving chemotherapy. Cytoxan, for example, requires a lot of liquid in your body to work effectively.
• Know your rights--cancer patients are protected from discrimination in the workplace and in hospitals under the 1990 Americans With Disabilities Act.
• Don't plan major activities during your first week of treatment, until you see how you feel.

Who Can Help: