Cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, but understanding each step helps you feel more in control. Chemotherapy remains one of the most common ways to treat many types of cancer. It uses powerful drugs to target and kill fast-growing cells.
Unfortunately, chemotherapy also affects healthy cells, which leads to side effects. Knowing how chemotherapy works, what side effects you might face, and how to prepare both mentally and physically can ease the journey ahead.
Delhi stands as a leading center for medical care in India, offering advanced oncology services and experienced specialists. If you are considering chemotherapy in Delhi, you can expect access to modern facilities and support services for your needs.
What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy rapidly dividing cells. Cancer cells grow and divide faster than most normal cells, making them prime targets for these medications. However, some healthy cells such as those in hair roots, digestive tract lining, and bone marrow also divide quickly. Chemotherapy drugs cannot distinguish perfectly between healthy and cancerous cells, so side effects often develop where normal cells get damaged.
Doctors choose specific chemotherapy drugs or combinations based on factors like the type of cancer, its stage, your overall health, and any prior treatments. Chemotherapy can be given alone or alongside surgery, radiation, or targeted therapies. It may aim to:
- Cure the cancer completely
- Control cancer growth and spread
- Relieve symptoms when cure is not possible (palliative intent)
The Chemotherapy Process
Before starting chemotherapy, your oncology team will:
- Confirm the type and stage of cancer via imaging and biopsy.
- Conduct blood tests, heart and lung evaluations, and other exams to ensure you can tolerate treatment.
- Select specific drugs, dosages, and schedules based on evidence and guidelines.
- Clarify the intent of treatment whether curative, control, or symptom relief.
- Outline how often you’ll come to the clinic, how long each session lasts, and where you’ll receive treatment (hospital infusion center, day care clinic, or at home).
Receiving Chemotherapy
Most chemotherapy is given by infusion into a vein (intravenous or IV). Rarely, pills or injections under the skin (subcutaneous) serve as alternatives.
Preparation:
- The nurse checks your vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, heart rate).
- A blood draw ensures your blood counts and organ function are safe for treatment.
- An anti-nausea medication (antiemetic) may be given to reduce risk of vomiting.
Administration:
- A small needle or catheter is inserted into a vein, often in your arm.
- The chemotherapy drugs flow from a bag attached to an IV line.
- You sit or lie comfortably; you can read, listen to music, or watch TV.
- Sessions can last from minutes to several hours, depending on the regimen.
Observation:
- Nurses monitor you for immediate reactions like allergic responses or discomfort.
- They record any side effects you report, enabling dosage adjustments later.
Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Each person’s experience differs, but certain side effects are frequent because healthy fast-dividing cells get damaged. The intensity and duration also depend on the specific drugs and doses.
1. Fatigue
Cancer and chemotherapy both demand extra work from your body. Low red blood cell counts (anemia) reduce oxygen delivery to tissues.
Management Strategies
- Balance activity with rest to avoid overstretching your energy.
- Track when you feel most tired to schedule tasks during your “peaks.”
- Gentle walks or stretching can boost energy.
- Include iron-rich foods (spinach, lentils) and stay hydrated.
- Keep a regular sleep schedule; limit naps to 30 minutes.
2. Hair Loss
Chemo attacks hair follicles, which contain fast-growing cells.
Management Strategies
- Choose scarves, hats, or wigs before hair starts falling out.
- Use mild, fragrance-free shampoos; pat hair dry.
- Wear a lightweight hat if you go outdoors.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
Chemotherapy can trigger the vomiting center in the brain and irritate the gastrointestinal lining.
Management Strategies
- Anti-nausea drugs
- Small, frequent meals
- Choose bland foods
- Stay hydrated
4. Changes in Taste and Appetite
The drugs can alter your taste buds and sense of smell.
Management Strategies
- Experiment with flavors
- Cold or room-temperature foods
- Drinks like milkshakes or supplemental shakes add calories and protein.
5. Digestive Upsets: Constipation & Diarrhea
Chemo can pause or accelerate bowel movements.
Management Strategies
- Increase fiber (fruits, whole grains), hydrate, and use mild laxatives if prescribed.
- Stay hydrated with electrolyte solutions, eat a BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), and avoid dairy if it worsens symptoms.
6. Skin and Nail Changes
Chemotherapy may make skin dry, itchy, or sensitive. Nails can become brittle or develop ridges.
Management Strategies
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic soaps and lotions.
- Apply a thick cream after bathing and before bed.
- Wear sunscreen (SPF 30+) and protective clothing.
7. Peripheral Neuropathy
Certain drugs can injure peripheral nerves, causing numbness, tingling, or pain in hands and feet.
Management Strategies
Doctors may lower chemo doses or switch medications.
Over-the-counter remedies like gabapentin or prescribed medications can ease symptoms.
8. “Chemo Brain” (Cognitive Changes)
Chemo can affect brain function, leading to memory lapses or difficulty concentrating.
Management Strategies
- Use planners, to-do lists, and alarms to remember tasks.
- Puzzles, reading, or games can keep your mind active.
- Ensure you get adequate sleep and breaks during the day.
- Inform friends and family so they can offer reminders and understanding.
9. Fertility and Sexual Health
Chemo can lower levels of sex hormones, impacting fertility and libido. It may cause early menopause in women.
Management Strategies
- Discuss options like egg or sperm freezing before treatment starts.
- Open communication with your partner and counseling can help address concerns about sexual health.
Cost of Chemotherapy in INR
The cost of chemotherapy varies widely based on the drugs used, number of cycles, and facility charges. In India, a typical chemo cycle can range from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per cycle. Over several cycles, total expenses can reach ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 or more.
Costs rise if you require advanced targeted therapies or immunotherapies. Always discuss financial estimates and insurance coverage with your oncology team to plan accordingly.
How to Prepare Mentally for Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can take an emotional toll. A positive mindset and solid support network ease the mental burden.
1. Educate Yourself
Know which drugs you will receive and their schedule. Anticipating possible side effects makes them less scary when they occur.
2. Build a Support Team
Let family and friends help with chores, rides, or simply company during treatment. Connect with others undergoing similar experiences in person or online. A psychologist or social worker can offer coping strategies for anxiety or depression.
3. Set Realistic Expectations
Some days you’ll feel well, others less so. Having a flexible schedule prevents disappointment. Completing a cycle, a good lab result, or a symptom-free day are all achievements.
4. Practice Stress Reduction
- Mindfulness and meditation: Simple breathing exercises can calm nerves before sessions.
- Yoga and gentle stretching: These activities reduce stress and support physical well-being.
- Journaling: Writing down thoughts and feelings can provide release and insight.
Conclusion
Undergoing chemotherapy is a major life event, but thorough preparation helps you face it with strength and confidence. Understanding how chemotherapy works, recognizing potential side effects, and learning practical ways to manage them empowers you throughout treatment. Prioritize mental well-being by building a support system, practicing stress reduction, and maintaining realistic expectations. Support your body with good nutrition, gentle exercise, and careful planning.