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After receiving a cancer diagnosis, most patients wonder about their treatment options. Your oncologist will recommend a combination of approaches to combat the illness. One of the most conventional cancer treatments is chemotherapy. Here, the medical professionals at Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC in Anchorage explain the basics of this approach to help you make an informed decision about your cancer treatment plan.

What Is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy, or chemo for short, utilizes a combination of drugs that combat cancer. The mixture, which is known as a cocktail, has various formulas to fight different types of cancer. Oncologists can recommend chemo by itself or in combination with immunotherapy, radiation, target therapy, or surgery. 

How Does Chemo Work?

The compounds in chemotherapy drugs work three ways, killing existing cancer cells, preventing more from forming, and reducing the disease’s growth. The cocktail is administered via injection, intravenously, orally, or topically. Before beginning chemotherapy, discuss any medications or other health issues that could disrupt the treatment, especially if your immune system is already compromised. 

chemotherapy Anchorage AKThe oncologist will schedule chemo in cycles. Most patients receive treatment for a prescribed period over the course of several months. The time when you do not receive treatment gives your body time to recover after absorbing the drugs.

How Will Chemo Make Me Feel?

The side effects of chemotherapy vary between patients. Some cancers require stronger cocktails to combat cell growth, whereas other types respond to less powerful drugs. Depending on your treatment, you may experience some unpleasant side effects, including hair loss and reduced energy. The oncology team will discuss these conditions with you in-depth before beginning treatment. Additionally, patient services are usually available to help you manage your symptoms.

What Are Clinical Trials?

There are always new cancer drugs under development, and clinical trials allow researchers to gauge their effectiveness. If you're interested in participating in a trial, ask your cancer team if you are eligible for any ongoing studies.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is difficult, and it's crucial to find an oncology team with the experience, compassion, and commitment to help you through the process. The experts at Alaska Oncology and Hematology, LLC treat patients with the dignity and care they deserve during their cancer treatments. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 279-3155, or visit them online for more information about patient support.

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