Chemotherapy treatment

When might I be offered chemotherapy?

You may be offered chemotherapy:

• As a stand-alone treatment for cancer

• To relieve your symptoms if a cure isn’t possible

• As part of a combined approach along with surgery and/or radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy drugs can be based on natural plant compounds or man-made chemicals. They can be given as tablets (orally) or into a vein (intravenously). Your consultant oncologist will advise and work with you to create your personalised treatment plan.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy saves lives but there are some side-effects. These include:

• Hair loss

• Feeling sick

• Dry skin

• Tiredness

Chemotherapy also affects your immune system, so the risk of infection is higher. Your specialist nurse will advise you on how to manage and reduce any side-effects.

Intravenous chemotherapy

If you need to have chemotherapy intravenously, you can come along to one of our local centres. Bring a friend or relative if you like and any books, tablet computers or other ways to pass the time. We make our chemotherapy suites comfortable, homely and self-contained with:

• Comfortable treatment pods

• Any medication you need

• Your own TV

• A friendly, accessible refreshment area

With you every step of the way.

Chemotherapy can be hard, but you’re not facing it alone. Our specialist nurses will make sure you get the right support whenever you need it. Being a good listener is a part of their job.

If you’d like more information, just get in touch.