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health advisory Hospital Diseases 2007-11-12 17:55:56

can you still work and function while on it? do have to stay in the hospital for it or is it outpatient?

Answer:

most chemo is yes outpatient, but it depends on which type of cancer you are being treated for and what type of chemo you are receiving. R U asking because you are about to start? If so, what type of cancer do you have? If your oncologist has not recommended or you don't have already, HIGHLY recommend getting a "port" installed for administering the chemo. It fries your veins and this allows them to access your main artery without having to insert an IV every week in addition to all the NUMEROUS times you will have blood drawn. I went thru chemo 10 yrs ago for breast cancer and yes, it was outpatient. Went every week, scheduled on Fridays so would have the weekend to recover. They had excellent anti-nausea drugs then, and probably have better ones now. as far as being able to function & work on it, again, depends on your particular situation. Mine was a diff combo of chemo drugs every week, with the 3rd week being the "blast" that really zapps your white count which makes you very susceptible to infections & so it depends on where you work as far as #1 - if there are others in your work place that are sick, you should really wear a mask or stay home when your counts are low. you will be extremely tired and most likely loose your hair. If you're just getting started, go ahead & cut your hair short or it can be quite a mess. If your interested in wearing a wig, it's best to go before all your hair falls out just to get a style that matches what you have., however, they are vERy itchy, so I usually went without...but be aware that this baldness scares people & reminds them that you are sick, so if nothing else wear it for those that care about you. Your energy level and job will dictate whether you are able to work full time throughout treatment. If you are able to work at home at all, that is your best option as you get further along in your treatment. Again depends on type of cancer & treatment. Radiation zaps your energy much more than chemo. And be prepared for it take several months after treatment stops before you even begin to return to "normal" Highly recommend seeking nutritional therapy as you loose your appetite to increase immune system and, but make sure you clear all w/your oncologist b4 taking. some vitamins interfere w/certain chemo drugs. Most cancer centers (as far as what it is like) you go in, sit in a recliner & it usually takes about an hour or so to administer the drugs. You should plan on having someone drive you home tho. Bring headphones & music & inspirational reading. Read everything about your particular cancer you can get your hands on. I ended up firing my 1st oncologist for several reasons. I feel God allowed me to survive to help others & would love to speak with, email or otherwise communicate with you about this. This is not a simple answer. Some people continue to work thru-out, but just remember your "battle" is the most important thing right now! Pls. contact me if you'd like to talk to someone that's been thru it. I didnt have anyone like that...and know it would have helped. Developed a group during radiation (just 'cause we were always there at the same time), and went to some counseling (cancer specific) most hospitals provide. highly recommend! Feel free to contact me-I'm always avail to a fellow cancer "sista".

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It really depends on the type of chemo you are recieving. Most are done on an out-patient basis, it is just IV meds. How your body reacts to the drugs is also a factor, your blood count may drop and you become more prone to infections. Also, the chemo may make you stomach sick for a day or two. Good luck!

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You can work and function on it, usually.