During chemotherapy, drugs are used to kill cancer cells. This may occur by itself or in conjunction with other treatments. The chemotherapy treatment is not right for every type of cancer. Your doctor may be able to suggest other treatments.
There are some risks to chemotherapy. Side effects include nausea, mouth sores and loss of appetite. Some drugs may also make the immune system less efficient in fighting infections. In order to lower the risk of infection in chemotherapy, you might need antibiotics.
Chemotherapy is usually administered in cycles over a period of weeks or months. The drug is given by injecting the device into a vein at the chest or arm. The treatment takes approximately one hour. If you are concerned about the side effects, you can talk to your doctor or nurse about how to make the most of your chemotherapy.
Your red blood cell count and white blood blood cell count may decrease during chemotherapy. This can lead to fatigue and weakness as well as breathing problems. A blood transfusion may be necessary if your blood count is too low.
Some chemotherapy drugs can make food taste metallic. Other side effects include dry, itchy, painful, or inflamed mouth, as well as mouth ulcers, gum inflammation, dryness, and mouth odor. Brushing your teeth gently can help to reduce these side effects. You might also need to avoid spicy or acidic foods.
Chemotherapy may also affect your peripheral nerves. Some people feel numbness in their feet and hands. The majority of peripheral neuropathy symptoms disappear after treatment. You should consult your doctor if you feel any numbness and tingling.
Your oncologist might monitor your long-term treatment effects. Regular blood tests may be required to monitor your PSA levels, kidney function, and other factors. These tests will allow your doctor to determine whether chemotherapy is working. You might be able to stop treatment if you suffer from severe side effects.
It can be difficult for patients to cope with side effects from chemotherapy. Follow your doctor's and nurses' instructions. Talk to your family members and other healthcare professionals about your concerns. They can help with side effects.
If side effects from chemotherapy are causing you difficulty, it is possible to arrange for help at your home or workplace. You might need to arrange for food and water. Wearing a head covering is another option. Talk to your oncologist about how you can continue to get regular check-ups.
It is possible to discuss a potential bone marrow transfer with your doctor. This is often used to treat cancers of the bone marrow. While it cannot cure cancer, it can control lupus and rheumatoid. It is safe for pregnant women.
FAQ
Who owns the healthcare network?
It all depends on how you view it. The government might own public hospitals. Private companies may run private hospitals. Or a combination.
What are the different health care services?
A health care provider is a medical institution that offers healthcare services for patients. A hospital is one example of a health care facility. It usually includes many departments such as the emergency department, intensive care unit, operating room, pharmacy, outpatient clinics, etc.
What is the best way to get free coverage for my area's health?
If you're eligible, you could apply for free coverage. You might be eligible if you qualify for Medicaid, Medicare and CHIP.
What should you know about vaccines
Vaccines provide a very safe and effective way of keeping you healthy. Vaccines protect you from certain diseases. Vaccinations can be given at specific times throughout your childhood, adolescence, or adulthood. Your doctor can discuss the best time to get vaccinated.
Statistics
- Healthcare Occupations PRINTER-FRIENDLY Employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 16 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2.6 million new jobs. (bls.gov)
- The health share of the Gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to continue its upward trend, reaching 19.9 percent of GDP by 2025. (en.wikipedia.org)
- For the most part, that's true—over 80 percent of patients are over the age of 65. (rasmussen.edu)
- Price Increases, Aging Push Sector To 20 Percent Of Economy". (en.wikipedia.org)
- Foreign investment in hospitals—up to 70% ownership- has been encouraged as an incentive for privatization. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
How To
What are the Key Segments of the Healthcare Industry?
The major segments of the healthcare sector include diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics and biotechnology, as well as therapeutics, health IT, medical equipment and medical devices.
These medical devices include blood pressure monitors and defibrillators as well as stethoscopes and ultrasound machines. These products are usually designed to diagnose, prevent, or treat diseases.
Pharmaceuticals are drugs that are prescribed to treat disease or reduce symptoms. You can find examples such as antibiotics, antihistamines or contraceptives.
Diagnostics are tests performed by laboratories to detect illness or injury. Examples include blood tests, urine samples, CT scans, MRI scans, X-rays, etc.
Biotechnology refers essentially to the use of living organisms (such bacterium) to create useful substances which can be used by humans. Some examples include insulin, vaccines, and enzymes.
Therapeutics are treatments administered to humans to treat disease or relieve symptoms. They may include drugs, radiation therapy, or surgical interventions.
The computer software programs called health information technology help doctors and their teams to manage patient records. It allows them to track the medications being taken, their timing, and if they are functioning properly.
Anything used to diagnose or treat illnesses and conditions, such as diabetes, is medical equipment. These include dialysis machines and pacemakers, ventilators, operating table, and ventilators.