Chemotherapy can be used to treat several types of breast cancer. In determining a treatment plan, your oncologist will take into consideration your type of breast cancer, the stage and whether or not it has positive or negative receptors for estrogen, progesterone or HER-2/neu. These factors affect the length of treatment as well.
Chemotherapy may cause you to lose your hair. Ask your oncologist if the type of chemotherapy you are going to receive will cause you to lose your hair. If it does you may want to obtain a wig before your treatment begins so you can match hair color and style. Some women prefer to go without a wig and wear a soft hat or turban.
This choice is a personal decision for you to make.
Your Energy and Appetite
If nausea or poor appetite becomes a problem you should let your physician know. As the chemotherapy works to rid your body of cancer cells it also takes a toll on your energy level and appitite. It is important for your immune system and energy level to keep a regular diet with healthy food choices.
Questions to ask Oncologist:
- Do I need to have genetic testing?
- Do I need to have chemotherapy?
- What side effects can I expect from chemotherapy?
- How many treatments will I need?
- How long will the treatments take?
- Are there other medications that are given with the chemotherapy?
- Will chemotherapy affect fertility?
- What follow up tests will I need after my treatments are finished?