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To treat cancer, Chemotherapy will kill the malignant cells, or keep them from dividing. Cancer cells divide more often than normal cells, and so they are more weakened by chemotherapy drugs. Chemotherapy is usually planned out and referred to as "chemotherapy protocol" and usually includes 2 or 3 types of drugs. While surgery and radiation will attack a single area of the body, chemotherapy will affect the whole body. This means side affects will be present, but can be treated with medication to help the patient tolerate the chemotherapy.
This therapy is usually given in cycles, so the body can rest between cycles. Doses are administered in outpatient visits, but on the first visit you may be required to stay overnight for observation. Some patients react to medication.
Some side affects may include:
Hair loss
Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of Appetite
Constipation
Diarrhea
Mouth Sores
Anemia
Mental Confusion
Hearing Problems
Fatigue
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