Chemotherapy Treatment Delhi

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Chemotherapy: What You Need to Know

Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment that kills fast-growing cells, mostly used to treat cancer. Since cancer cells multiply quickly, chemotherapy is often effective against them. There are many different chemotherapy drugs, and they can be used on their own or combined with other treatments.

While chemotherapy works well for many types of cancer, it also has risks, including side effects. Some side effects are mild, but others can be serious.

Why Chemotherapy is Used

Chemotherapy can be used in different ways for cancer treatment:

As the main treatment to cure cancer on its own.
After surgery or other treatments to destroy any remaining cancer cells (adjuvant therapy).
To prepare for other treatments by shrinking a tumor (neoadjuvant therapy).
For symptom relief by shrinking cancer to make a person more comfortable (palliative chemotherapy).

Non-Cancer Uses

Chemotherapy can also be used for:

Bone marrow diseases like blood cell disorders, often before a bone marrow transplant.
Immune system disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, in lower doses.

Risks and Side Effects

Chemotherapy has side effects that depend on the drug used. Some common side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting

Hair loss

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Mouth sores

Bruising and bleeding

Some side effects, like organ damage or infertility, can develop long after treatment.

How Chemotherapy is Given

Chemotherapy drugs can be given in various forms:

Through an IV infusion into a vein.
As pills or capsules you can take by mouth.
Injections with a needle.
Creams or gels applied to the skin for certain cancers.
Direct to a specific area, like the abdomen or bladder, for localized treatment.

Where and How Often You'll Receive Treatment

Chemotherapy can be given:

At a clinic or hospital
In a doctor's office
At home (if in pill form)

Your doctor will decide the schedule based on the cancer type and your body's recovery.

What to Expect from Chemotherapy

Your doctor will select the chemotherapy drugs best suited for you by considering several factors. These include the type and stage of your cancer, your overall health, any past cancer treatments you've had, and your personal goals and preferences. It's important to have an open conversation with your doctor to explore your options and choose the treatment plan that works best for your specific situation.

Common Chemotherapy Protocols

In India, chemotherapy protocols follow international guidelines and are tailored to specific cancers. Here are some common protocols used:

Breast Cancer

A widely used regimen is Docetaxel (Taxotere), Carboplatin, and Trastuzumab (Herceptin) and is used primarily to treat HER2-positive breast cancer or TAC (Docetaxel, Adriamycin, and Cyclophosphamide). Another protocol is AC followed by Paclitaxel.

Lung Cancer

For non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Cisplatin or Carboplatin combined with drugs like Paclitaxel, Gemcitabine, or Pemetrexed is common.

Colon Cancer

Protocols often include FOLFOX (5-Fluorouracil, Leucovorin, and Oxaliplatin) or FOLFIRI (5-Fluorouracil, Leucovorin, and Irinotecan).

Lymphoma

For Hodgkin's lymphoma, the ABVD regimen (Adriamycin, Bleomycin, Vinblastine, and Dacarbazine) is commonly used. For non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, CHOP (Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone) is often administered.

Ovarian Cancer

A typical treatment involves Carboplatin and Paclitaxel.

These protocols may vary depending on individual patient needs and the specifics of the disease. Always consult with an oncologist to determine the best chemotherapy plan.

Preparing for Chemotherapy

Before Chemotherapy

Medical Check-ups: Your doctor will run tests to ensure your body is ready for chemotherapy. This may include blood tests, heart checks, and a visit to the dentist to prevent infections.
Install a Medical Device (If Needed): If you’re receiving chemotherapy through a vein (IV), a device like a port or catheter may be surgically placed in your body to make treatment easier.
Plan for Side Effects: Speak with your doctor about possible side effects such as hair loss or infertility. You may want to plan for head coverings or discuss fertility preservation.
Arrange Help: Chemotherapy can be exhausting. Arrange for help with daily tasks, childcare, or transportation.
Get Rest: Make sure you’re well-rested before your first session. Eating a light meal may also help you feel better during treatment.

During Chemotherapy

Bring Support: Consider having a friend or family member with you for your first treatment. They can provide comfort and help if you feel tired afterward.
Stay Comfortable: Bring items to help you relax, like a book, headphones, or a blanket. Dress in loose, comfortable clothing.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Light: Drink plenty of water and bring light snacks in case you feel hungry or nauseous during treatment.

Communicate with Your Care Team: If you feel unwell or experience any side effects, let your healthcare provider know immediately.

After Chemotherapy

Rest and Recover: Chemotherapy can leave you feeling tired. Take time to rest and let your body recover after each session.
Manage Side Effects: Talk to your doctor about managing side effects like nausea, mouth sores, or fatigue. They may suggest medications or lifestyle adjustments.
Follow-Up Care: Keep regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health and how the treatment is working. You may also need scans or tests to check progress.
Stay Active (Gently): Light physical activity, such as walking, can help boost your energy and improve your mood.
Support Your Immune System: Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and follow any specific dietary guidelines from your doctor.

Tracking Progress

Your doctor will monitor you closely during chemotherapy with regular tests and check-ins. They may adjust your treatment if necessary.

Why should you plan your next chemo session with Oncare?

Affordable & Transparent Care: At Oncare, we provide top-quality chemotherapy at a fraction of the cost compared to many private hospitals. Our commitment to transparency ensures you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for, so financial constraints won’t affect your treatment.

Experienced Doctors: Our team consists of highly skilled and experienced oncologists, offering personalized treatment plans to give you the best possible care.

Trustworthy Services: Oncare has built a reputation for trust and reliability, so you can feel confident that you’re in safe hands throughout your treatment.

Avoid Government Hospital Delays: Long waiting times and overcrowding in government hospitals can delay your treatment. Oncare provides timely care without the hassle.

Private Hospital Quality, Without the High Costs: We offer the same level of care as top private hospitals, but at significantly lower prices, making it accessible for more patients.

Call Us: 9667940053 Get Cost Estimate Now