Side Effects of Hodgkin's Disease Treatment
Hodgkin's disease treatment options are powerful. While they destroy cancer cells, they may also damage healthy cells and tissue. This can lead to side effects.
These possible side effects depend mainly on the type and extent of the Hodgkin's disease treatment. Side effects may not be the same for each person, and they may change from one treatment session to the next. The younger a person is, the easier it may be to cope with Hodgkin's disease treatment and its side effects.
Before treatment starts, the healthcare team should explain the possible side effects of Hodgkin's disease treatment and suggest ways to help you manage them.
Supportive Care During Hodgkin's Disease Treatment
At any stage of the disease, you can have treatments to:
- Control pain and other symptoms
- Relieve the side effects of therapy
- Ease emotional and practical problems.
This kind of Hodgkin's disease treatment is referred to as supportive care.
You may receive antibiotics and other drugs to help protect you from infections. Your healthcare team may advise you to stay away from crowds and from people with colds and other contagious diseases. If an infection develops, it can be serious, and you will need treatment right away. Patients with Hodgkin's disease may be vaccinated against the flu, pneumonia, and
meningitis. They should discuss a vaccination plan with their healthcare provider.
Hodgkin's disease and its treatment also can lead to anemia, which may make you feel very tired. Drugs or blood transfusions can help with this problem.
Follow-up Care After Hodgkin's Disease Treatment
Follow-up care after Hodgkin's disease treatment is important. Your doctor will watch your recovery closely and check for recurrence (return) of the lymphoma. Patients who receive Hodgkin's disease treatment have an increased chance of developing:
Regular follow-up care ensures that patients are carefully monitored, that any changes in health are identified, and that new or recurrent cancer can be detected and treated as soon as possible.
Between scheduled visits, you should contact the doctor right away if you have any health problems.
Previous
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print