Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is normally given as a drip via a cannula. The Chemotherapy team and pharmacists need to assess weight, bloods and you an individual every time before treatment is given. Different treatments take varying amounts of time to infuse.
Yes, you will have meals and drinks provided for you at the Cancer Centre but carry on eating as normal. You will be weighed before each cycle of treatment and if there is much variation in this then you can be reviewed and advised by a dietician.
Just because you’re having Chemo, it doesn’t mean you’ll lose your hair. This is dependent on the type of treatment – and Professor Chan can discuss this with you at the time.
Apart from advice on wigs, hairpieces and scarves we also offer a ‘cold cap’ service, which for some treatments will help to reduce hair loss.
Yes, Professor Chan can advise on this further and treatment days can be tailored to fit in around holidays.
Yes, physical activity can help you feel better in lots of ways, its safe and has lots of benefits. How much and what type of activities you choose to do depends on your interests, individual situation and level of fitness. Someone from The Cancer Centre can advise you on this and will refer you to our physiotherapy team or one of our cancer exercise classes.
Radiotherapy:
Generally your appointment will take around 15 minutes, depending on the area being treated and the technique used to deliver the treatment.
This depends on your individual prescription, but usually somewhere between three and five weeks, with daily visits Monday to Friday.
You will be asked to attend a planning appointment where you will have a CT scan in the set position required for your daily treatments. At this visit we will ask to put some tiny permanent marks on your skin to use as markers for reproducing your position each day.
As Radiotherapy is a localised treatment, the side effects depend on the area of treatment and are individual. Professor Chan will go through any possible side effects with you before you start treatment and the Radiographers will be happy to discuss this with you and provide advice and support, together with an individual care plan. By using the latest technology and techniques, side effects of radiotherapy are minimised.
Everyone feels different during Radiotherapy. Some people feel completely fine throughout treatment and continue to work, but others might feel the need to take time off if they are feeling tired and experiencing side effects. It’s important to listen to your body and do what feels right for you at the time.
Most people are perfectly able to drive during Radiotherapy and continue with normal daily activities. However we can provide transport if needed.