Cancer is one of the most critical health diseases that are associated with the leading cause of mortality. However, with early detection and proper treatment cancer can be treated resulting in a healthy life. You can also consult with some of the top cancer hospitals in Siliguri which can help you diagnose your cancer followed by effective treatment to manage the symptoms of your cancer.
There are numerous treatments that your oncologist can advise you based on your health condition and the stage of the cancer. Radiation, Chemotherapy and Surgery are the most common forms of cancer treatment. While some cancers can be treated with therapies some need complex surgeries. In this blog, we will understand the difference between these cancer treatments so that you can have an idea as to which treatment is ideal for your cancer type.
Overview of Cancer treatments
Once you have been diagnosed with cancer, healthcare can advise you with treatment options based on various factors such as medical condition, stage of cancer, age and many more. Although your doctor may suggest a range of treatment options it is better to have a brief knowledge about the treatment along with limitations which can help you make proper decisions for your health. However, in case you have any doubts regarding the treatments you can freely consult with cancer specialists in Siliguri who will guide you with the process of treatment. Let’s understand in detail the major cancer treatments that your healthcare can suggest to you.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the most popular cancer treatment that uses anti-cancer drugs to kill and stop the growth of malignant cells in the affected tissues. The therapy is used to cure the cancer which sometimes is combined with radiation therapy to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. Chemotherapy is a drug which is given to the patient in the form of oral pills and injections.
Types of cancer treated with chemotherapy
Primary Cancer: It refers to the original site from where the cancer has begun. Chemotherapy is one of the most common forms of treatment for primary cancer. Some of the primary cancer includes cancer associated with the lungs, breast and prostate.
Secondary Cancer: Also known as metastasis, secondary cancer is a type of cancer in which the malignant cells have spread over nearby areas.
Possible side effects include:
- Hair loss
- Skin rashes
- Bone marrow issues
- Nerve problems
- Fatigue and nausea
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is the most suitable way of treating cancer which uses high-powered X-rays to kill the cancer within the body. The use of radiation therapy is based on the type of location of the malignant cells. While in some cases the therapy is used independently, your doctor might use it alongside another form of treatment such as chemotherapy and surgery.
The therapy helps to shrink the cancer cells and stop their growth which is later removed with the help of surgery. In some cases, radiation therapy is also used after chemotherapy to kill the remaining cancer cells in the body for the healthy recovery of the patient. You may also seek help from some of the best cancer hospitals in Siliguri where you can get proper guidance over radiation therapy for cancer treatment.
Possible side effects include:
- Fertility issues
- Memory loss
- Throat issues
- Hair loss
- Bladder issues
Surgery
When it comes to cancer, surgery is the most effective form of treatment as it removes the part or entire affected area reducing the risk of cancer affecting other parts or organs of the body. Unlike chemotherapy and radiation therapy, surgery is suitable for all forms of cancer and is mostly conducted combined with other forms of cancer treatments. However, treating cancer with surgery can be a difficult task especially if the cancer is located near blood vessels. Types of cancer that are treated with surgery include cancer related to the skin, breast, mouth, liver, colon and many others.
Possible side effects include:
- Blood clots
- Surgical scars
- Bruising
- Wound infection
- Breathing problems
Factors to consider when choosing cancer treatment
Although there are ample options for cancer treatment it is always better to have a talk with cancer specialists in Siliguri regarding the choice of treatment. Now that you have understood the basics of treatments, you also need to consider a few factors when choosing the right treatment for your cancer. Following are some of the factors which can help you make a decision over which treatment can be best for you.
- Know the type of cancer.
When choosing the right cancer treatment it is always better to know more about your cancer type. While some of the treatment is used for specific regions some are used for the entire body. Your doctor might also determine the stage of your cancer based on which you can select the treatment methods.
- Medical Health
You also need to consider your medical health, as most of the cancer treatment comes with potential risks. Identifying your underlying health condition will help your doctor know whether or not your body can tolerate the side effects of treatments.
- Available options
You also need to consider with your doctor along with your medical conditions to know the available options for the treatment of your cancer.
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Benefits of risks
While some of the treatment comes with minimal and short-term side effects, some of them can result in long-term side effects with serious health complications consulting with an expert can help you get to know about the treatment along with its benefits and risks to your overall health.
- Duration of the treatment
You need to understand and discuss the overall duration of each treatment along with how often you need to visit for the treatment. This may also help you plan your schedule accordingly for better treatment.
- Cost of the treatment
Cost is one of the major factors that can help you decide on the treatment. Understanding the cost of your treatment will allow you to manage your financial assistance for the treatment. You also need to review your insurance policy for the coverage of the treatment.
- Second opinion
It is always a better idea to consult with other specialists as a form of second opinion. This can also help you compare regarding the cost, experience and quality of the treatment.
Cancer is one of the most critical forms of healthcare which can be treated using multiple forms of treatments. However, the decision for the treatment depends upon yourself and should always be taken with the expert consultation from cancer specialists. You may also compare some of the top cancer hospitals in Siliguri regarding various factors before opting for the treatment. With proper knowledge and expert guidance, you can make a better decision resulting in effective treatment and recovery from cancer.
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