Some consequences of treatment of lymphoma

• April 23, 2024

Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system. Like other types, it can be treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, or with other methods such as the treatment of antibodies and through bone marrow transplants. Like any other type of cancer, there are some side effects of the treatments to fight it.

The treatment of cancer is quite toxic to the body. Cancer cells multiply at an abnormal rate. This produces a mass of tissue that becomes a tumor. When left unattended, cancer cells destroy nearby healthy cells and stop their functions; whole organs can be completely destroyed what obviously means the death of that person.

The eradication of these cancer cells is the key element in cancer treatment procedures. However, the goal is to destroy the cancer cells without killing the normal cells.

Chemotherapy is a common method to kill cancer cells, several drugs are used to kill the cells. However, they continue to affect healthy cells.

The most common side effects of treatment in patients with lymphoma include decreased blood cell production, diarrhea, fatigue, mouth sores and hair loss.

Side effects of chemotherapy

The decrease in blood production includes red blood cells, white blood cells and even platelets. Some patients also reported the feeling of nausea after treatment. And because of the drugs used, it can also harm the production of sperm and eggs; It is a medical fact that the treatment can cause temporary or permanent sterility.

Instead of drugs, radiation therapy uses X-rays to kill the cells. But like chemotherapy, it can also destroy healthy cells. Side effects of this treatment include feeling tired all the time; Hair loss and nausea are also common problems when patients undergo radiation therapy. But hair loss is limited to areas where the treatment is effectively intended. Nausea and changes in the skin are other known side effects.

Some treatments use steroids to control the growth of cells. Steroids such as cortisone, prednisone and dexamethasone can cause insomnia, increased appetite, mood swings and weight gain. The good news is that steroid treatment is not used for long periods.

To counteract the side effects of lymphoma treatment, doctors suggest drinking plenty of water before your treatment, especially if you will undergo chemotherapy. If you have sores in your mouth, a good way to achieve comfort is to drink milk and cream. Tomato juices and especially citrus juices are not a good idea when you have sores in your mouth, it is also suggested to eat several servings of small meals during the day instead of eating full-size meals.

Remember that your immune system at this time is compromised due to your low blood count, so it is advisable to stay away from overcrowded areas and people who are sick. Ask your doctor for other ways to reduce side effects.

Video Medicine: Celiac Disease and Risk of Lymphoma - Celiac Disease in the News (April 2024).