You’ve probably heard of chemotherapy, but do you know what it really does?
Chemotherapy is one of the oldest treatments for cancer, but it’s more complex than it seems. At its core, it’s a treatment designed to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It doesn’t work by curing the disease in a single swoop; it attacks the rapid, uncontrollable division of cells that defines cancer. But chemotherapy also impacts healthy cells, which leads to side effects. What you see is not just a treatment; it’s a battle for balance inside your body.
And that battle can look different for everyone.
Chemotherapy isn’t just about killing cancer—it’s about slowing its spread
The goal of chemotherapy is not always to cure cancer, but to control it. It works by using powerful drugs that target cancer cells, stopping them from dividing and growing. These drugs circulate through the bloodstream, reaching cancer cells throughout the body, especially those that have spread or metastasized. But chemotherapy doesn’t just kill cancer cells—it also affects normal, healthy cells. The difference is that cancer cells divide rapidly, so they’re more vulnerable to chemotherapy’s effects.
Chemotherapy is as much about controlling the cancer as it is about managing its collateral effects.
Types of chemotherapy: Understanding the different approaches
Chemotherapy can be used in various ways, depending on the cancer type, stage, and the treatment plan. There are different ways chemotherapy drugs are delivered. Some patients receive chemotherapy through an intravenous (IV) drip into their veins. Others may take chemotherapy pills. In certain situations, chemotherapy might be delivered directly to a specific part of the body, like the abdomen or spinal fluid. The type of chemotherapy and how it’s administered will depend on the doctor’s assessment of the best approach to your cancer.
Each method is tailored to where the cancer is located and how aggressive it is.
What to expect before starting chemotherapy
Before starting chemotherapy, there’s usually a lot of preparation. Your doctor will explain the specific drugs, their potential side effects, and how the treatment will unfold. You might need blood tests to check your overall health, and a physical exam to ensure your body can handle the treatment. Your doctor will explain how often you’ll need to come in for treatments, the duration of each session, and what you can expect in the days after each dose. There will also be a discussion about the supportive care available to help you manage any side effects, like medications to prevent nausea.
Chemotherapy preparation is about learning what’s coming and being ready for it.
The treatment itself: What happens during chemotherapy
Chemotherapy sessions are often held in outpatient settings, where you can go home afterward. The first part is an IV, a port, or a catheter that delivers the chemotherapy drugs. Some people might have to stay in a treatment room for several hours, depending on the medication they’re receiving. Other treatments are quicker, taking only a few minutes. During the session, you might feel some discomfort, but the drugs themselves won’t usually hurt. Most chemotherapy treatments are administered in cycles, with time in between to give your body a chance to recover.
The length and intensity of the treatment depend on your cancer type and how you’re responding.
Side effects: What to expect, and how to manage them
Chemotherapy’s side effects are well-known, but not everyone experiences them in the same way. Since chemotherapy affects both cancer cells and healthy cells, it can lead to a variety of side effects. Some of the most common are nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and weakened immune systems. You might also notice mouth sores or changes in your appetite. These side effects are difficult, but they’re temporary for most people, especially when your treatment ends. Your doctor will prescribe medications to help reduce these symptoms, making the process more manageable.
It’s about dealing with discomfort while knowing that it’s temporary—and it’s a sign that treatment is working.
Hair loss isn’t inevitable—but it can be a part of the process
One of the most visible side effects of chemotherapy is hair loss, which happens because chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, including those in your hair follicles. While it can be distressing, it’s important to remember that hair loss is often temporary. Not every chemotherapy regimen causes hair loss, and it typically starts a few weeks after treatment begins. It’s different for everyone. Some people choose to cut their hair short before it starts to fall out. Others opt for wigs or scarves. However you approach it, know that this change won’t last forever.
Your hair will grow back once your treatment ends, often with a different texture or color.
Fatigue is common—take it one step at a time
Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy, and it can be overwhelming. Chemotherapy works by attacking cancer cells, but it also uses energy from your body to carry out its mission. You may find yourself feeling more tired than usual, even after sleeping for long periods. It’s important to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. While you can’t always avoid fatigue, planning rest periods throughout your day can make things more manageable. Ask for help when you need it, and don’t push yourself too hard.
Fatigue doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means your body is healing, in its own way.
Nausea and vomiting are common, but they can be controlled
Many people associate chemotherapy with nausea and vomiting, but the good news is that they can usually be managed. Medications that prevent nausea are often prescribed alongside chemotherapy. These medications work to prevent the chemicals from reaching the part of your brain that triggers nausea. Although nausea might still occur, you don’t have to face it without relief. There are many ways to manage nausea, including medication, ginger, and adjusting your diet. If nausea does become overwhelming, talk to your doctor immediately—they can adjust your medication plan.
Managing nausea is about finding what works for you and getting the right support.
Coping emotionally during chemotherapy
Chemotherapy isn’t just physically taxing—it’s emotionally challenging, too. The emotional toll can be just as heavy as the physical symptoms. You might feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even depressed. These feelings are common. Having someone to talk to, whether it’s a therapist, counselor, or support group, can help you manage these emotions. Many cancer centers offer programs specifically designed to support you emotionally during chemotherapy. It’s important to acknowledge your emotions and get the support you need, whether from family, friends, or professionals.
You don’t have to face the emotional side of cancer treatment alone.
The end of treatment: What happens when chemotherapy is finished
When chemotherapy finishes, it’s a relief, but it can also bring uncertainty. Some people feel energized, while others feel exhausted. Some feel relief, while others experience fear of recurrence. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions at the end of chemotherapy. You’ll continue to have regular check-ups to monitor your recovery. Sometimes, chemotherapy doesn’t fully destroy all the cancer cells, and other treatments may be needed. But for many people, the end of chemotherapy signals the beginning of healing.
The end of chemotherapy doesn’t mean the end of your journey—it’s the beginning of the next chapter.
Chemotherapy: A critical part of cancer treatment
Chemotherapy can be one of the most effective tools in fighting cancer. It can shrink tumors, stop cancer cells from spreading, and improve the chances of survival. But chemotherapy isn’t easy. It requires strength, patience, and support. It’s a process of ups and downs, of moments when you feel your best, and moments when you need to rest. Through it all, chemotherapy works with you to fight back against the disease. It’s not a perfect treatment, but it’s one of the most powerful weapons we have.
Chemotherapy isn’t the end of the story—it’s a crucial part of the fight.