Chemotherapy may be used as the primary treatment for colon cancer, or as adjuvant therapy along with surgery and radiation treatment. When, where, and how chemotherapy is used will depend on the stage of the cancer, the health of the patient, and the doctor's preferences.
Chemotherapy is the use of one or more of several drugs to kill cancer cells. The anticancer drugs work by stopping the division and reproduction of cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used to:
- Kill any cancer that remains after surgery
- Control the spread or growth of tumors
- Relieve cancer symptoms
During chemotherapy, drugs enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, so it is known as systemic therapy. Combination chemotherapy is when more than one drug is used at a time. Chemotherapy is given by:
- Direct injection into a vein (IV)
- Catheter (such as a central line)
- Pill form
Where treatment is given will depend on what drugs are being used, the doctor's preferences, and the patient's condition. Treatment doesn't always take place in a hospital inpatient setting; it may also be given in a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital outpatient center.
Chemotherapy is often given in cycles with rest times in between to allow the body to regain strength. It is very important to stick with the chemotherapy cycle as prescribed by a physician in order to achieve the best possible results.
When most people think of chemotherapy, they immediately think of troubling side effects such as nausea and hair loss. Fortunately there are many treatments to prevent or counteract the side effects that are most disturbing to cancer patients. Anti-nausea drugs may be given as a preventative measure to help with sour stomach and vomiting. Good oral hygiene including brushing with a soft toothbrush and flossing 3 times a day may help to prevent mouth sores and irritation.
Many chemotherapy drugs can cause diarrhea and constipation. With either side effect, it is important to drink plenty of water to either replace fluids lost, or to make stool pass more easily through the colon. Anti-diarrheals are not usually given as a preventative measure, but may be prescribed if troubling digestive problems persist.
After a cycle of chemotherapy the prescribing physician will want to follow up with various tests to track the effectiveness of the treatment. Blood tests and X-rays are just two of the tests that may be used during follow up doctor visits to track the cancer and make further decisions on treatment.
Chemotherapy is often associated in many people's minds with hair loss, nausea and terminal illness. Today, many of the troubling side effects can be lessened or even prevented. Chemotherapy is often used effectively in conjunction with other treatments such as surgery and radiation to send cancer into remission.
