When chemotherapy is used
Chemotherapy is often given with the aim of cure, not only in advanced cancer.
- Before surgery, to shrink a tumour
- After surgery, to lower the chance of the cancer returning
- With radiotherapy, to make it work better
- As the main treatment for several cancers, such as many leukaemias and lymphomas
- To control advanced cancer and relieve symptoms
What to expect at C.R. Reddy Cancer Center
Your reports are reviewed and the plan is explained: the goal, the number of cycles and the side effects to watch for. Blood counts are checked before each cycle. Most chemotherapy is given as a day-care drip, and you usually go home the same day; some treatments are tablets taken at home. Modern anti-sickness medicines prevent vomiting for most people.
Contact the team straight away for
- A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above, or shivering
- Vomiting that stops you keeping fluids down
- Diarrhoea several times a day
- Bleeding, unusual bruising, breathlessness or chest pain
Common questions
Will I lose my hair?
It depends on the drugs, doses and schedule. Some treatments cause complete hair loss, others thinning or very little. Hair usually grows back within a few months after treatment ends.
Is chemotherapy only for advanced cancer?
No. Chemotherapy is often given with the aim of cure: before or after surgery, alongside radiotherapy, and as the main treatment for several cancers.
Can treatment be changed if side effects are difficult?
Yes. Chemotherapy is reviewed before every cycle; doses can be lowered, treatment delayed, or the drugs changed. Talk to the team rather than stopping on your own.
