A diagnosis of breast cancer can often mean the beginning of treatments to help remove or prevent further spreading of the disease. The different treatments for breast cancer can often cause several side effects. These side effects vary depending on the type of treatment, its frequency and the severity of the cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a treatment administered to breast cancer patients to aid in attacking the cancerous cells. Although this treatment is a common practice used for many breast cancer patients, it comes with several side effects. The medication administered in chemotherapy usually affects the cells of the body. The medication is working to help the patient, but the natural reaction of the body to the medicine is for the cells to weaken or divide. The different types of cells affected by this treatment include blood cells and hair cells. When blood cells are affected, the patient might have more chance of infection.The blood cells are also affected when they are divided, making it difficult for the blood to clot. Because the treatment affects the hair follicles, patients may begin losing their hair. However, it may be encouraging for a person receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer to know that the side effects are not permanent.
Radiation Treatment
Radiation treatment is also used to attack the cancerous cells. Side effects might include skin irritation to the radiation site. Irritation can be defined by dry skin, or skin that becomes red and itchy. One of the more severe side effects related to radiation treatment is fatigue. For this reason, breast cancer patients are advised to get as much rest and relaxation as possible. As with chemotherapy, the side effects of radiation are not permanent. A patient's energy level and condition of her skin should, in most cases, return to their normal states.
Tamoxifen
Tamoxifen is a drug used to treat breast cancer patients during hormonal therapy. The type and severity of side effects depends on the amount of tamoxifen being administered. The side effects associated with this treatment include irregular menstrual cycle, hot flashes and vaginal irritation. These side effects are a result of tamoxifen hindering the body's use of estrogen.
Appetite
A woman's appetite is often affected by different methods of breast cancer treatment. As a result of different treatments, most patients lose their appetite. This could have much to do with nausea or vomiting from certain treatments. The best remedy to deal with this side effect is dividing meals into several small ones throughout the day or boosting up nutrients with supplement shakes.
Energy and Fatigue
Radiation treatment may not be the sole contributor of fatigue for breast cancer patients. A combination of factors can cause a severe loss of energy. To combat this issue, women are advised to get plenty of rest and incorporate exercise into their daily regimen. Fatigue can also be caused by a low amount of iron in a woman's diet. Breast cancer patients should make sure they have enough iron in their diets as well.
Tags: breast cancer, cancer patients, side effects, breast cancer patients, blood cells
