Chemotherapy

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Chemotherapy uses anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs enter the bloodstream and can affect cancer cells all over the body.

Anticancer drugs are usually given through a vein, but some may be given orally. You may be treated in an outpatient part of the hospital, at the doctor's office, or at home. Rarely is a hospital stay needed.

The side effects of chemotherapy depend mainly on the specific drugs and the dose. The drugs can harm normal cells that divide rapidly. The following cells may be affected:

Cells That May Be Affected	Possible Side Effect
Blood cells	More likely to get infections, bruise or bleed easily Feel very weak and tired
Cells in hair roots	Hair loss Mote: hair will grow back, but it may be somewhat different in color and texture
Cells that line the digestive tract	Poor appetite Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Mouth and lip sores

Chemotherapy for colorectal cancer can cause the skin on the palms of the hands and bottoms of the feet to become red and painful. The skin may peel off.

Your health care team can suggest ways to control many of these side effects. Most side effects usually go away after treatment ends.

You may find it helpful to read NCI's booklet.

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